A Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is a legal instrument by which local authorities can implement traffic management control.  Under the provisions of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, a TRO is designed to regulate, restrict, or prohibit the use of a road.  A TRO may take effect at all times or during specified periods and certain classes of vehicle may be exempt.

In 1999 East Sussex County Council applied to the Secretary of State for an order to be made under paragraphs 1(1) and 2(1) of Schedule 3 to the Road Traffic Act 1991 to designate the Borough of Hastings as a 'permitted parking area and a special parking area'.  This meant that Hastings Borough Council could enforce all traffic and parking restrictions in the Borough (apart from moving traffic violations eg speeding offences, which only the police can do that).

When we propose to introduce a new, or change or remove an existing restriction we need to formally advertise the proposal to give anyone who may be affected by the change an opportunity to object.  Any such objections received are then reported to and considered by our Traffic Management Committee who then make recommendations to Cabinet for approval.

If Cabinet approve the proposals and any amendments made by the Traffic Management Committee, a works Order is drafted and submitted to our contractors to arrange for relevant lines and signs to be installed on street.  When all works are complete the Legal section seal the Traffic Order, and only then do the restrictions become enforceable.  The entire process can take between 12 and 18 months.

Back to top of page...