Monday 14 September 2015
The Environment Department would like to remind landowners of their responsibility and the importance of keeping hedges, bushes and other growth cut back on land that borders a public road.
Overgrown vegetation can obscure traffic signs and traffic signals, leading to road safety issues. In addition to this, vegetation close to traffic signals can interfere with the signals vehicle detectors. This can lead to vehicles not being detected, thus leading to longer waiting periods for a green signal.
It is also important to cut back overgrown vegetation on property boundaries to maintain visibility of oncoming traffic, especially on bends in the road and/or close to property entrances, and to keep pavements suitably wide enough for use by pedestrians.
It is particularly applicable at this time as, under Ordinance XVIII of 1953, hedges bordering a public road must be cut between 1st and 15th June and 15th and 30th September each year. Inspections are carried out by the Parish Constables to ensure that this law is complied with. However, we would ask that landowners take responsibility throughout the year to ensure that signs and traffic signals are completely visible.
Permissions for road obstructions
Property owners are also reminded that they need permission before carrying out work that causes an obstruction in the road. Obtaining permission for most minor works should not be a problem, but islanders still need to make a written application. Staff need to be able to stipulate any conditions that might apply, such as not carrying out work during peak traffic times. They are also available to provide guidance on any signage that is required, both to ensure the safety of the applicant and that of motorists or other road users. Forms and further information can be obtained from the Department's website www.gov.gg/roadworks.
Contact Information:
Karl Guille, Traffic and Transport Services Manager
Environment Department
Tel: 243400
