A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) restricts or closes a road for a limited period. The council uses one when a road needs to be controlled for a short time, most often for roadworks. Some examples of what a temporary TRO can do are:
- Close a road
- Impose a temporary speed limit
- Suspend parking
When the council uses one
The council can make a temporary order where works are being or are about to be carried out on or near the road, where there is a likelihood of danger to the public or of serious damage to the road that is not caused by works, or where the order is needed to allow litter clearing under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Typical examples are:
- road resurfacing and patching
- utility works for water, gas, electricity or telecoms
- bridge, drainage or other structural repairs
- building works next to the road
Road closures for sporting, social, or entertainment events are made under separate legislation, such as Section 16A of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 or the Town Police Clauses Act 1847. Additional information on these types of orders can be found here.
How long it lasts
A temporary order can last up to 18 months on a road, or up to 6 months on a footpath, bridleway, cycle track or byway. Where the order is for works that will take longer than 18 months, it can run until the works are finished if the order indicated as such, the council must end it once the works are complete. The council can apply to Welsh Government for permission to extend an order for a further period of up to six months.
How the council makes a temporary order
- Confirm the grounds. The council checks that one of the legal reasons applies and considers whether suitable alternative routes exist.
- Advertise in advance. The council publishes notice of its intention in a local newspaper at least 7 days before making the order.
- Make the order and sign the road. The council makes the order, the necessary traffic signs are erected by whoever is managing the works who also notify people directly affected.
- Publish notice of the making. The council publishes notice that the order has been made, within 14 days of the order coming into effect.
Who makes the order
As with permanent orders, the council makes temporary orders for roads where it is the highway authority. Temporary orders on trunk roads are dealt with by the Welsh Government through its trunk road agent.