Hounslow Temporary Structure Licences Explained

When undertaking any construction, maintenance, or event work that requires placing objects or structures on the public highway in Hounslow, understanding the local regulations is paramount. Failure to secure the appropriate permissions can lead to significant penalties, project delays, and even legal action. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a temporary structure licence from Hounslow Highways, ensuring your operations are fully compliant and safe for both workers and the public.

The public highway is a shared space, and its safe and efficient use is a priority for local authorities. Hounslow Highways, as the responsible body, oversees all activities that may impact the flow of traffic or pedestrian movement. This includes the temporary placement of various structures and materials. A temporary structure licence is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle; it is a critical safeguard designed to minimise disruption, ensure public safety, and protect the integrity of the highway infrastructure.

What Requires a Temporary Structure Licence?

Hounslow Highways mandates that a licence must be obtained for a range of temporary structures and operations that encroach upon or affect the public highway. These are typically activities associated with construction, demolition, or large-scale maintenance projects. Understanding which specific items fall under this requirement is the first step in ensuring compliance.

Common temporary structures and operations requiring a licence include:

• Scaffolding: Essential for building work, scaffolding often extends over pavements or into the road. Its placement must be carefully managed to prevent obstruction and ensure stability.
• Hoarding: Used to secure construction sites, hoardings can block pedestrian pathways or limit visibility. Licences ensure these are safely erected and maintained.
• Building Materials: The temporary storage of bricks, sand, skips (though skips have a specific permit process, their general presence on the highway falls under this umbrella), or other construction materials on the public highway requires authorisation to prevent hazards.
• Crane Operations: The use of cranes, particularly when their jibs swing over or their outriggers extend onto the highway, poses significant safety considerations and necessitates a licence.
• Skips: While skip permits are a specific type of licence, they are fundamentally a temporary structure on the highway and fall under the purview of Hounslow Highways. More details on skip permits will follow.

Each of these items, if placed without the necessary licence, is deemed an illegal obstruction. The consequences of such non-compliance can be severe, ranging from immediate removal orders to financial penalties and potential legal proceedings.

The Application Process: Steps to Secure Your Licence

Obtaining a temporary structure licence in Hounslow is a straightforward process, provided you have all the necessary documentation and information ready. The key is to be thorough and proactive in your application.

To apply for a temporary structure licence, you will need to complete a dedicated 'highways activities application form'. This form gathers all the essential details about your proposed works, including the location, duration, and nature of the structure. It’s crucial to fill this out accurately and completely to avoid delays.

Essential Supporting Documentation

Your application will not be processed without two critical supporting documents. These are non-negotiable requirements, highlighting the importance of safety and accountability in highway operations.

1. Current and Valid Public Liability Insurance Certificate: This document demonstrates that you are adequately insured against any potential damage or injury that might occur as a result of your temporary structure or operations on the public highway. It is a vital safeguard for the public and the local authority. Ensure your insurance covers sufficient indemnity for such works.
2. Full Method Statement: A method statement is a detailed document outlining how the work will be carried out safely. It should include a comprehensive risk assessment, identifying potential hazards and outlining the measures that will be put in place to mitigate them. This includes details on site setup, safety barriers, lighting, pedestrian management, and the sequence of operations. A well-prepared method statement demonstrates your commitment to safety and compliance.

Applications submitted without these two documents will be automatically rejected and will not proceed to review. This strict policy underscores the commitment of Hounslow Highways to public safety and proper planning.

Submitting Your Application

Once you have completed the highways activities application form and gathered all the required supporting documents, the application needs to be submitted to the Street Works department at Hounslow Highways. The preferred method of submission is via email to [email protected]. It is advisable to keep a copy of your submitted application and any correspondence for your records.

Remember, planning ahead is key. Applications take time to process, and you should factor this into your project timeline. Submitting your application well in advance of your proposed start date will help avoid unnecessary delays.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Operating a temporary structure on the public highway without the necessary licence from Hounslow Highways carries serious repercussions. These measures are in place to deter unauthorised obstructions and protect public safety.

These consequences highlight the importance of obtaining a licence. It is far more cost-effective and less disruptive to secure the necessary permissions upfront than to face the penalties associated with non-compliance. The safety of the public and the integrity of the highway infrastructure are paramount.

Specifics of Skip Permits in Hounslow

While skips are a type of temporary structure, their placement on the public highway has a distinct permit process. It is crucial to understand that the responsibility for obtaining a skip permit does not lie with the resident or business hiring the skip, but rather with the skip company itself.

Key points regarding skip permits:

• Skip Company's Responsibility: It is the skip hire company that must apply for and secure the permit *before* placing a skip on the public highway. This ensures that the company is aware of and adheres to all regulations regarding skip placement.
• Unlicensed Skips: An unlicensed skip on the public highway is subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) and/or removal by Hounslow Highways, with the possibility of prosecution. This reinforces the need for skip companies to be diligent.
• Placement Restrictions: Skips are strictly prohibited from being placed on the footway (pavement) or verge (the strip of grass or unpaved land beside the road). This is to ensure clear passage for pedestrians and to prevent damage to verges.
• Delivery Method: Skip hire companies cannot drive their vehicles across the footway to deliver or collect skips. The skip must be lifted over the footway by a loading device, such as a crane or a specific skip loader, to prevent damage to the pavement and underground utilities.
• Damage Liability: If the public highway is damaged during the transportation, placement, or removal of a skip, the skip hire company is solely responsible for the cost of repairs.

It is important to note that a skip permit is not required if the skip is placed entirely on private land. If you are uncertain whether your land is considered public highway or private, it is always advisable to seek permission from the landowner to avoid any potential issues.

Reporting Dangerous or Unauthorised Skips

If you observe a skip that appears to be dangerous, improperly placed, or operating without a visible permit on the public highway in Hounslow, you can report it directly to Hounslow Highways. This helps the authority maintain safety standards and enforce compliance across the borough.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even with a clear guide, common questions often arise when dealing with permits and regulations. Here are some FAQs related to temporary structure licences in Hounslow, based on the provided information:

Q: Who is responsible for issuing temporary structure licences in Hounslow?
A: Hounslow Highways is responsible for issuing all licences for temporary structures placed on roads within the borough.

Q: What documents are absolutely essential for my application to be processed?
A: You must submit a copy of your current and valid public liability insurance certificate and a full method statement. Applications without these will not be processed.

Q: What happens if I erect a temporary structure without a licence?
A: It will be considered an illegal obstruction. Hounslow Highways will require its immediate removal, issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN), and may undertake legal proceedings in certain circumstances.

Q: Who is responsible for obtaining a skip permit?
A: It is the responsibility of the skip company to apply for and obtain the skip permit before placing a skip on the public highway.

Q: Can a skip be placed on the pavement or grass verge?
A: No, skips should not be placed on the footway (pavement) or verge. They must also be lifted over the footway by a loading device, rather than driven across it.

Q: Do I need a permit if I place a skip on private land?
A: No, a skip permit is not required for occupation on private land. If in doubt, it is advised to seek permission from the landowner.

Q: How do I submit my application for a temporary structure licence?
A: Once completed, you should return your application to the Street Works department at [email protected].

Contacting Hounslow Highways

Should you have further questions or need to get in touch with Hounslow Highways regarding temporary structure licences or other street works, you can use the following contact details:

Phone: 020 8583 2000

Address:
Hounslow Highways
Street Works Team
Jubilee House
Depot Road
Hounslow
TW3 1SN

It is always recommended to contact them directly if you have specific queries about your project or need clarification on any aspect of the licensing process. Their team can provide guidance to ensure your application is correct and your operations comply with all local regulations.

Navigating the requirements for temporary structure licences in Hounslow is a crucial step for any project impacting the public highway. By understanding the types of structures that require a licence, meticulously preparing your application with all necessary documentation, and adhering strictly to the regulations, you can ensure a smooth and compliant operation. Remember that proactive engagement with Hounslow Highways and a commitment to safety are your best tools for successful project execution.

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