Maintaining public rights of way

Southampton City Council has a duty to assert and protect the rights of the public to use and enjoy all highways, including public rights of way. They are maintained so that they are safe and convenient for the public to use. If you would like to report a problem with a public right of way, please contact Actionline on 0800 5 19 19 19.

Gates and staggered barriers - The maintenance of gates and staggered barriers, or any other 'furniture', is the responsibility of the landowner, with the City Council ensuring they are safe and easy to use.

Surfacing - The maintenance of the surface of a right of way can be the responsibility of either the Highway Authority or the landowner. The surface of public rights of way should be maintained so as to be safe and fit for ordinary traffic.

Obstructions - The landowner is responsible for keeping any public rights of way on their land free from obstruction. If a landowner obstructs a public right of way, Southampton City Council has a duty to remove any unauthorised obstructions. That is anything that restricts access along a right of way, unless it is recorded in the Definitive Map and Statement, or has been legally authorised by the City Council.

Overhanging vegetation - The landowner or occupier is responsible for clearing any vegetation originating from their land that overhangs the path where it endangers or obstructs users passage.

Fly-tipping - This is illegal. It seriously affects the enjoyment of using public rights of way throughout the City. The Council has a responsibility to collect fly-tipping from public land.

Misleading signs - A misleading sign is one that may discourage a person from using a public right of way. It is an offence to erect such a sign, and the City Council can take enforcement action to remove it.

Dogs - Dogs can accompany their owners using rights of way, but should be kept under close control and not allowed to wander off the path onto adjoining land. Dog mess is unpleasant and can cause infections. If your dog fouls on a public right of way, please clean up and dispose of the mess responsibly.