Southend-on-Sea City Council’s Highways Enforcement Team will soon begin using existing legal powers to better protect public spaces and ensure the safe use of footways and verges for all residents.
From July 2025, a new staged enforcement approach will be introduced using powers under the Highways Act 1980 and the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
Staged enforcement may include:
- serving formal highway notices (which may lead to the installation of bollards)
- issuing Community Protection Notices
- Fixed Penalty Notices for non-compliance
These powers will be used to tackle unlawful vehicle crossings, damage to verges, and other obstructions on the public highway that affect access, safety, and enjoyment of public space.
A recent survey across just four of the city's 17 wards identified over 800 instances of vehicles illegally crossing footways or verges, often where there is no authorised dropped kerb or where an existing one is inadequate. These crossings cause damage, pose safety risks, and increase repair costs.
The council will also act against other forms of encroachment, such as vegetation overhanging footways and unlicensed skips or materials stored on the highway. Where temporary use of the highway is needed, residents and contractors are reminded to apply for the necessary licences.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said: "Our roads and footways are public spaces, and we all have a responsibility to keep them safe, accessible and in good condition. While many residents use these spaces appropriately, a small number of persistent cases are causing unnecessary damage and putting others at risk."
"We want to be clear, our aim isn't to punish people, but to protect public land and encourage responsible behaviour. That's why we'll always take a measured, staged approach, starting with advice and information before moving to formal action only where absolutely necessary."
Residents wishing to create a legal vehicle crossing are encouraged to visit our parking, travel and roads section for more information. Where suitable, applications for new dropped kerbs or extensions to existing ones are welcomed.