Temporary Changes to Public Highway and Footway Use
Temporary changes to road and footway use are managed through specific regulations. This is to:
- ensure public safety, and
- maintain traffic flow
Examples of temporary changes include:
- closures
- diversions
- parking suspensions to facilitate events
- roadworks
- emergency responses
These situations require a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO), which sets out:
- the duration of the restriction
- any alternative routes
- the necessary signage
In some cases, depending on the nature of the works, a Highway Licence or Permit may also be required. This applies where the proposed activity will:
- obstruct the highway
- restrict traffic flow
- close or divert roads or lanes
- suspend parking bays, bus stops, or taxi ranks for prolonged periods
- prevent pedestrian footways from remaining clear
Where works involve excavating the highway surface or installing temporary structures, it is essential to secure the appropriate permit or licence in advance.
Examples include:
- cranes
- cherry pickers
- hoardings
- scaffolding
- temporary crossings
For events affecting the public highway or footway, such as parades or street parties, an Event Permit may be required. This is in addition to a TTRO. For guidance and information on this process, applicants should visit our Hosting an event on council land page.
In addition, a Street Works Permit is required for any activity that involves breaking up or working on the highway.
We operate within the East of England Permit Scheme. This governs works carried out by utility companies and other organisations on public highways.
All applicants are expected to comply with best practice for the safe operation of street works. This is outlined within the Department for Transport’s Code of Practice.
TTRO for Streetworks (Utility Companies):
Utility companies must submit a TTRO application for approval if they are planning:
- to carry out work on the highway
- any activity that may affect road user safety within the city
A Section 50 Licence must be obtained before submitting the TTRO application if the work involves excavating the road to repair or install pipes or cables.
If you need a Section 50 licence, please email: HighwayPermits@southend.gov.uk.
A streetworks permit is also required for excavation and related work. This can be arranged through email (StreetworksManagement@southend.gov.uk).
You will also need a Highway Licence or Permit if the work requires:
- road closures
- partial blockages for worker safety
- traffic management
A minimum of three months’ notice is required, along with an application for a Major Streetworks Permit which must include a Traffic Management Plan(s), and Diversion Route Plans (ideally 1:1250 scale).
Application Requirements:
The TTRO application must be submitted simultaneously with the Major Streetworks Permit application. This ensures compliance with the legal requirements.
A minimum of 3 months' notice is required for a Major Permit and TTRO application.
The application fee. Costs at the time of application may vary. The current fees can be found on our Council Fees and Charges pages.
Required Documentation:
- Traffic Management Plan(s)
- Diversion Route Plans (ideally 1:1250 scale)
- Scaled Plan (ideally 1:1250) of the affected location
Important: It is mandatory requirement to submit a streetworks permit application at least 3 months in advance of works commencing.
Cancellations and Rescheduling:
If the TTRO is no longer required on the requested date, you must inform us at least 3 weeks in advance of its start date.
Failure to provide notice will result in the full TTRO charge being applied.
TTRO for Non-Utility Works:
Some non-utility works (for example, building construction) may require the restriction or prohibition of part of the highway. As a result, a TTRO application for approval will need to be submitted.
You must first obtain a Highway Licence or Permit if the proposed work involves:
- obstructing the highway
- closing lanes or roads
- diverting traffic
- affecting pedestrian access
This also applies if you plan to install equipment such as:
- cranes
- cherry pickers
- hoardings
- scaffolding
- temporary crossings
For excavation and related work, a streetworks permit is required. Please contact StreetworksManagement@southend.gov.uk.
If the work involves road closures or traffic management, a Highway Permit must be obtained. Please contact HighwayPermits@southend.gov.uk.
Applications must be submitted at least four weeks in advance of the start date and must include, Traffic Management Plans.
Application Requirements:
A minimum of 4 weeks' notice is required. A TTRO can only be requested once a Highway Licence or Streetworks Permit (excluding utility companies) has been granted.
Traffic Management Plans must be provided at the permit application stage.
The application fee at the time of application may vary. The current fees can be found on our Council Fees and Charges pages.
Required Documentation:
- Traffic Management Plan(s)
- Diversion Route Plans (ideally 1:1250 scale)
- Scaled Plan (ideally 1:1250) of the affected location
- Evidence of granted Highway Licence/Permit
Important: If a Highway Licence is required, the applicant must obtain it before submitting the TTRO application. Failure to obtain a licence under Sections 143 and 169 of the Highways Act 1980 may result in the removal of unauthorised structures and potential legal action.
Cancellations and Rescheduling:
If the TTRO is no longer required on the requested date, you must inform us at least 3 weeks in advance of its start date.
Failure to provide notice will result in the full TTRO charge being applied, as outlined in the Council's Fees and Charges.
TTRO for Special Events
A TTRO application is required for special events that require:
- the closure or obstruction of public highways
- a restriction to pedestrian access
This must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance.
Before getting started, event organisers must get the necessary event hosting permission from us, as these details will be required. Similarly, if temporary structures are needed, organisers will need to make sure all relevant licences are obtained.
Examples of temporary structures include:
- stages
- marquees
- barriers
Application Requirements:
A minimum of 8 weeks' notice is required after an Event Permit/Licence has been granted.
Traffic Management Plans must be provided at the permit application stage.
The application fee at the time of application may vary.The current fees can be found on our Council Fees and Charges pages.
Required Documentation:
- Traffic Management Plan(s)
- Diversion Route Plans (ideally 1:1250 scale)
- Scaled Plan (ideally 1:1250) of the affected location
- Copy of Event Permit or Licence
Important: If an Event Permit has not yet been obtained, please visit the Hosting an event on council land webpage for guidance, before submitting this application.
Cancellations and Rescheduling:
If the TTRO is no longer required on the requested date, you must inform us at least 3 weeks in advance of its start date.
Failure to provide notice will result in the full TTRO charge being applied, as outlined in the Council's Fees and Charges.
Streetworks Emergency Notice
In the event of an emergency or unplanned works that require immediate or short-notice action, utility companies must notify us as soon as possible. This must be done even if the work has begun. Examples of emergency or unplanned works include:
- a burst water main
- a gas leak
- loss of supplies to premises
Prior application may not always be possible. However, a retrospective application must be submitted at the earliest opportunity. In the first instance, ahead of completing the application, please notify us of the issue right away.
Utility companies must also:
- provide advance warning to road users as soon as possible
- make sure that appropriate signage, lighting, and safety barriers are in place as quickly as possible
This will help to protect both road users and workers.
Application Requirements:
Emergency Notices must be submitted as soon as the works are identified.
A detailed description of the emergency works, including expected timelines and traffic management measures, must be provided.
A TTRO may be required depending on the scope of the works.
The application fee at the time of application may vary. The current fees can be found on our Council Fees and Charges pages.
Required Documentation:
- Traffic Management Plan(s) (if applicable)
- Detailed description of emergency works
- Expected duration of works
Important: Emergency Notices must be submitted as soon as practicable to ensure compliance with safety and traffic management regulations.