Torbay Council

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Pavements

This Council, as Highway Authority, has responsibility for the maintenance of the highway, including pavements and footways.
Trip hazards on pavements are a key concern at all times whilst the problems of weeds, standing water and ice tend to be more seasonal. Trip hazards and other defects on pavements are addressed in the following priority order.
PriorityDefect Description
1.
  • Slab movement, uneven ironwork, and potholes with a trip exceeding 20mm in busy urban area.
  • Depression greater than 25mm deep and less than 600mm in plan.
  • Cracking with a gap wider and deeper than 15mm.
2.
  • Slab movement, uneven ironwork, and potholes with a trip exceeding 20mm in a lightly pedestrianised area.
  • Major cracking on busy footway (but with gap width/depth less than 15mm).
  • Overhanging vegetation.
  • Weed contamination of footway surface on busy footway.
3.
  • Major cracking on less busy footway (but with gap width/depth less than 15mm).
  • Defective trenching with level difference exceeding 10mm.
  • Standing water (could be Priority 1 if on a busy urban footway and freezing conditions are anticipated).
  • Tarmac disintegration (fretting) with less than 20mm difference in level on urban footways.
  • Weed contamination of footway surface.
Pavements, particularly those constructed of paving slabs, can suffer very badly from overriding vehicles. Please note: In the case of damage, it is important, if possible, to report the vehicle details/findings so that the Council can recover the full cost of repairs to the pavement.
When works are being undertaken on the highway (including the pavement/footway), the organisation, which may include utility companies, carrying out those works is responsible for ensuring there is a safe diversionary route for pedestrians and other traffic and a satisfactory reinstatement.
If you have any query regarding a footpath or pavement, please use the contact Highways.

Paving Stone Theft

Theft of paving stones is a serious crime. Not only are the thieves creating a safety hazard for pedestrians, they are also stealing Torbay’s heritage. Thefts of this nature have a significant impact on council resources, including the costs to make the area safe.
Please report any suspicious actions to Devon and Cornwall Police opens in a new window. Calls will be treated in strict confidence. Do not make any direct approach to anyone suspected of stealing paving stones.



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