)ootpath and road obstruction reminder

Horsham 5ural City Council is concerned about a growing number of complaints regarding obstructions on footpaths, kerbs and street corners. “5ecently the Council has received a number of reports regarding trade vehicles being parked illegally near building sites, causing obstruction to pedestrians and blocking parking bays for drivers,´ 0anager 5egulatory Services /auren Coman said. “We are receiving reports about people using their own traffic cones to close off blocks of parking bays without permission. “)ootpaths are constructed to provide a safe environment for all pedestrians and it is especially worrying to see the elderly, young school children and people with strollers having to avoid vehicles and etuipment illegally blocking footpaths.´ 0s Coman said Council recognised that workers needed to restrict access to roadside areas and footpaths in order to complete construction projects. “*aining a permit through the Council means that tradies can be assured that what they are doing is compliant and they are not legally e[posed when things go wrong,´ she said. “We can also help with advice and planning for alternative access for pedestrians and drivers. “Applying for a permit is a straightforward process and applications can be submitted on Council¶s website.´ 0s Coman said the Community Safety 8nit would step up its inspections in response to complaints. “The Council is committed to keeping local roads and footpaths throughout the municipality safe for the benefit of all residents, and the Community Safety Officers will continue to be vigilant to ensure the safety of pedestrians.´ “This also includes obstructions in commercial areas where A-frame signs and hoardings crowd footpaths. “There are many positive benefits enjoyed by the local community through the promotion of footpath trading activities including increased activity and diversity of street life. %ut footpath trading retuires Council approval which will only be permitted in circumstances where pedestrian access, community safety and amenity is not compromised. “Community Safety Officers may impound articles such as A-frame notice boards and displayed goods immediately if they pose a threat or danger to the public.´ ,f you see a vehicle, construction etuipment or other commercial etuipment that is illegally impeding a thoroughfare, contact H5CC¶S Community Safety 8nit on . )or more information visit hrcc.vic.gov.au and search local laws.