FAQs

Road adoption

How do highways become public highways?

The current Highway Act dates from 1980, and includes powers used by a highway authority to adopt roads. For example, new housing estate roads are normally adopted under a Section 38 Agreement. The highway authority keeps a list of all highways that it maintains which can be viewed by appointment. You can make an appointment to check to see if a street or road is adopted by emailing highwaysdevelopment@shropshire.gov.uk

Can you tell me if a sewer is adopted?

Sewers are usually maintained by the water companies, and you should contact them. In Shropshire it will be:

There are drains maintained by us - for more information visit our drainage and flooding pages.

The extent of the highway

Can you provide me with a plan showing the extent of the highway?

There is normally a standard charge of £90 (1 April 2024) for providing a plan. If you require a large area, (for example for first estate registration) please email highwaysdevelopment@shropshire.gov.uk to ask for an estimate of costs. An additional charge of £54 per hour is payable (1 April 2024).

Can I pay for extents of highway or vehicular accesses applications with a credit card?

We can take payments if you're the card holder. For details please email highwaysdevelopment@shropshire.gov.uk

Vehicular access

Do I need planning permission to create a vehicular access onto a public highway?

In general:

  • If the adjacent highway is unclassified, creating a vehicular access is permitted development when it accompanies other work to the property
  • For highways with a higher category than unclassified, you'll require planning permission

There are other exceptions, for example you'll need planning permission if:

  • You're in a conservation area
  • Have a listed building
  • Have a tree preservation order

The planning authority can advise you accordingly.

Do I need permission to construct a vehicular access over a verge or footway?

If the access crosses a verge or footway, you'll need an S184 (Highways Act) crossing consent.