Introduction
Sandwell MBC have multiple Traffic Regulation Orders in place across the borough to help control parked traffic on the highways network.
A general map of all restrictions in the borough can be found HERE
What is a TRO?
A Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is a legal document that allows Highway Authorities to regulate speed, movement and parking of vehicles on public roads.
The act governing Traffic Orders is the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and is enforceable by law.
Why do we need TROs?
UK law requires that for any restriction to be enforced by the Council then a Traffic Regulation Order should be in place.
These restrictions then allow for the following benefits;
- To control or direct traffic
- To reduce or manage congestion
- To reduce danger to all road users
- To prevent Damage to roads, bridges etc.
- To preserve character, or amenity, of an area.
How can I get a TRO implemented?
If you would like to request a TRO to be implemented in your street, then please contact your local councillor. It would be advised that when making a request, that any evidence is given alongside any supporting documentation for the change is also provided.
What work goes into introducing a TRO?
A Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is the legal framework and process that allows for items such as parking restrictions to be legally enforceable. The process of creating a new, or even amending, an existing order is a complex and time consuming process.
To complete an order it requires many stages of public consultations, statutory consultation, scrutiny from solicitors, site inspections and general administrative work, and because of the extensive work involved across multiple teams within the council the costs can be quite significant.
What is the timeframe in getting a TRO implemented?
Currently Sandwell MBC are unable to offer a timeframe in which to expect TROs to be implemented on the network however considering the legal and statutory processes that are required it would be advised to allow a minimum of 6 months from the date in which the process starts.
As part of the statutory requirement to introduce a TRO, a public consultation is required to be undertaken this allows for any affected person(s) to provide comment on any changes within 21 days of the advertisement notice date. If any formal objection are received to the proposed plans then this is dealt with in line with the council’s process at the time in question. It is advised that if any objections to any plans are received then this timeframe is expected to be longer due to the additional stages that are required to be undertaken before the document can be sealed.
It would be advised that due to the volume of TRO requests that are received on an annual basis, that there is often a period of time from when a request is received as to when it starts the TRO process. Sandwell MBC endeavour to ensure that this timeframe is as small as possible and the officer in question who is reviewing your request will advise accordingly based on current workloads.
Current proposed Traffic Regulation Orders
Sandwell MBC continually review the borough taking into account reports received from Councillors, Engineers and members of the public, if you wish to view the current proposed Traffic Regulation Orders that are under public consultation then you can do so HERE