Illegal Use of Disabled Parking Signs
Reported via mobile in the Parking in a restricted space category anonymously at 14:51, Sat 23 November 2024
Sent to Buckinghamshire Council 1 day, 19 hours, 59 minutes later. FixMyStreet ref: 6773982.
Four illegal disabled parking signs have been displayed on the public road, extending across a distance sufficient to accommodate two vehicles. These signs are not only unauthorised but also constitute a misuse of public highway space, which is in contravention of several laws and regulations.
Specifically: 1. Unauthorised Signage Under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984: According to Section 64 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, any traffic signs (including disabled parking signs) on public roads must be prescribed or authorised by the relevant authority—in this case, Buckinghamshire Council. Without such authorisation, the signs are unlawful and unenforceable. 2. Obstruction of Public Highway: The placement of signs that restrict public access to parts of the highway without council consent contravenes the Highways Act 1980, which protects public rights to use the highway without obstruction. 3. Unfair Restriction of Public Access: A section of the public road has been effectively reserved without proper approval, depriving other residents and road users of equitable access to parking.
While it is understandable that residents may wish to discourage obstruction of private entrances, the use of such signs to claim an entire section of public road is neither lawful nor reasonable. Disabled parking bays must be formally approved and marked following council regulations to ensure fairness and compliance with legal standards.
Updates
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The Highway Officer will attend the site plotted on the map and make arrangements for the unauthorised sign to be removed.
As part of our highway management strategy, unauthorised signs will be removed from the highway, removal will be prioritised according to highway safety, resource requirements and the interests of the community. The Council may exercise their discretion not to enforce in some situations (e.g., small scale charity events).
These signs will be held for 28 days and there will be a storage fee of the unauthorised signs that do not comply with this policy where applicable.
Posted by Buckinghamshire Council at 14:51, Sat 23 November 2024
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Update
We have reviewed the issue reported and have amended the category; this will ensure your report is directed to the most appropriate team at the council.
State changed to: For Triage
Posted by Buckinghamshire Council at 10:02, Mon 25 November 2024
This report is now closed to updates from the public. You can make a new report in the same location.