I am delighted to confirm that Hastings Borough Council (HBC) have informed me that their PSPO banning night parking was amended on 9 July 2019 to remove the “Prohibition on sleeping in vehicles within the Restricted Area”.

I wonder why they kept that quiet? Surely it is not in their interest to do so?

My “misunderstanding” has proven very fruitful.

Height Barrier

Upon arrival to Cinque Ports Way for my site visit, I noted the unlawful height barrier obstructing the highway in breach of legislation. For such a restriction on the highway:

1. As the minimum clearance is below 5.03 metres standard warning signs both on and prior to the structure should be provided – There are no such signs on the barrier or prior to it.
2. A Traffic Regulation Order must be in place – I have requested a copy of this from HBC.
3. The height barrier unlawfully prevents or delays emergency vehicle access over the highway.

In the interests of public safety, I have requested that HBC remove the height barrier as a matter of urgency until such time as it may be erected safely and lawfully.

For further information please see Health and Safety Executive (please click on link)

Parking Ticket

This morning I noted HBC has issued a parking ticket on 12 November to a campervan as it had “Parked in a parking place or area not designated for that class of vehicle” on Cinque Ports Way

As the required signage in relation to this is not in place HBC must revoke the charge. In addition, they must reimburse all Penalty Charge Notices issued in a similar manner on Cinque Ports Way.

Freedom Of Information Request

Under the FOI Act I have requested copies of the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) in relation to the Height Barrier and the TRO in relation to the restriction on parking by certain classes of vehicles on Cinque Ports Way.

As Arkwright would say “Its been a funny old day”.