Road closures information

Road closures

The Highway Act gives the public a legal right to use highways including roads, pavements and public footpaths. Before a road closure can be introduced the council must make a Legal Order to remove the rights of the public to use the highway.

A road closure can cover part or all of a road's length and width, and may allow exemptions. For example, a pedestrianisation scheme may allow access for buses, taxis or cycles.

Stopping up roads

A road can be 'Stopped Up' i.e. completely remove the public's right to use the road. This procedure is often used where a road alignment has to be changed due to a building being constructed on part of the existing highway.

Advantages of road closures:

• reduces or removes motor vehicle traffic, noise and exhaust fumes in the area;
• provides a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists;
• provides an opportunity to enhance the area (with trees, seats and planting).

Disadvantages of road closures:

• traffic related problems can be moved to other local roads;
• less convenient access available for residents, visitors and deliveries;
• delays for emergency vehicles;
• police patrols may be limited which may lead to an increase in anti-social activity.

Current road closures

For information on current road closures within Bristol look at the Roadworks and Broadmead Development Travel Information pages that can be found in the Related Links section below.

Contact Traffic Management Group

Email: Traffic Management

Phone: 0117 903 6822

Fax: 0117 903 6830

Write to: Traffic Management Group, Floor 4, Wilder House, Wilder Street, Bristol, BS2 8PH

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