Traffic regulation orders

A traffic regulation order (TRO) is the statutory legal document necessary to support any enforceable or highway measure. It allows the Highways Authority to regulate the speed, movement and parking of vehicles and regulate pedestrian movement, which are enforceable by law.

The making of a TRO is a lengthy process which includes the following steps:

Consultation

Following the completion of the design consultation must be undertaken. This will require obtaining the views of the Emergency Services, Public Transport Associations, Local Councillors, and local public transport operators. Local interest groups such as residents, traders and community groups, who are likely to be affected by the proposals, may also be consulted where appropriate. The proposal may then be amended following consultation.

Advertisement

Advertisement of the traffic regulation order (TRO) (which is a legal document) then takes place. This includes a notice in the local press. The Council will usually display public notices in any roads that are affected and, if it is deemed appropriate, may deliver notices to premises likely to be affected. For at least 6 weeks from the start of the notice period the proposal can be viewed at First Stop, Plymouth Civic Centre during normal office hours.

Objections

Objections to the proposals must be made in writing to the address specified in the notice during a, minimum, 21 day notice period. Objections and other comments are then reported to and considered by the Local Area Committee. When considering the objections the Councillors must make resolutions to (a) allow the scheme to proceed as advertised, (b) modify the scheme, or (c) abandon it. These decisions are usually based on the Council Officers recommendations. The TRO is then sent by delegated decision to the Portfolio Holder for a final decision.

Making the order

The TRO can then be formally sealed providing all standing objections have been considered. Modifications to the proposals resulting from objections could require repeated consultation. This procedure can take months to complete and the advertising and legal fees can be substantial. For this reason schemes requiring a TRO normally need to be included in the annual Capital Programme and cannot be carried out on an ‘ad hoc’ basis.

Further information on TRO's can be found at traffic regulation order FAQ page.

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