Under normal circumstances the highway should be free from obstructions at surface level and of physical projections at any height.
Highways include carriageways, footways, cycle ways and verges. Anything that causes interference with the space above these is not normally permitted. On occasion, a projection over the highway is allowed.
In Hillingdon, a licence is required to cover projections over the highway in relation to the restriction on:
construction of buildings over highways
placing rails or beams over highways.
Eligibility criteria
Applications must be made by the owner of the proposed projection and/or the land it's associated with. The applicant will need to consider and accept the responsibilities placed on a licence holder and provide:
full details of the proposed projection including the type, purpose, construction method and location
evidence of public liability insurance valid for the full duration of the proposed licence with a minimum cover of £5,000,000
confirmation they are the owner
proposed commencement and finishing dates.
Licence holder conditions
The licence holder should:
contact all organisations who may have an interest in the highway to notify them of the proposal, seek objections or concerns and obtain copies of existing apparatus in the location in question
ensure works are planned correctly and carried out safely and expeditiously
notify the highway authority of any issues
ensure the projection is maintained and does not cause a danger to the public or damage to the highway infrastructure
indemnify the highway authority against all claims, including injury, damage or loss arising from any aspect of the apparatus or structure licensed, including installation, maintenance and removal
have suitable insurance for the duration of the licence that covers a minimum of £5,000,000 for each claim, with no limit to the number of claims
ensure the licence is correctly transferred to a third party if the land/apparatus is sold
ensure all conditions applied to the licence are fulfilled.
Please note: Further conditions may be applied.
How to apply
Apply by post or in person. Download an application form to print off and complete by hand.
The application will be validated to ensure the applicant is the owner of the projection and agrees to the licence conditions.
The proposal will be reviewed and consideration given to alternative options, the effect on the highway and potential risk to the highway infrastructure and the public.
Evidence of third-party agreements will be reviewed if applicable.
The proposed installation and construction method will be considered.
