Highway Works and Temporary Obstructions (Non-Utility)
If you want to temporarily restrict or excavate any part of the public highway in the city, you must first obtain the appropriate approval or permit/licence from the Council.
This includes any work or activity that may:
- obstruct part of the highway (carriageway or footpath)
- require a lane or full road closure
- temporarily divert traffic
- suspend a parking bay, bus stop, or taxi rank
- restrict pedestrian access or reduce the width of the footway
All permissions and agreements must be in place before any restriction or works begin. You must allow adequate time for us to assess and approve your application. Notice periods vary by permit type – see our Notice Periods page for full details.
When you need a highway permit or licence
You will require a permit or licence from the Council for any of the following:
- excavating the public highway (Section 50 Licence – NRSWA)
- placing a crane/cherry picker on the highway
- installing hoarding on the public highway
- erecting scaffolding on the public highway
- creating a temporary builders’ crossing
- placing building materials/equipment or any other temporary obstruction
- vehicular access onto the pedestrian area of Southend High Street
- any other activity that involves temporarily disturbing or obstructing the highway
Further details for each activity are outlined below.
Temporary Obstructions (e.g. scaffolding, hoarding, materials)
You must obtain permission before placing any item or obstruction on the highway, including:
- crane/cherry picker
- hoarding
- scaffolding
- temporary builders' crossing for construction site access
- building materials or equipment
- any other structure or obstruction
Use our online application form:
- to apply for a new permit
- to extend an existing permit
Permit charges are listed on our current fees and charges page.
For skip licences, please visit our skip licence page.
For road closures or diversions, see Road Closures and Diversions (TTROs).