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We are responsible for the maintenance of footways and pavements in the borough.

This includes problems caused by bad weather, accidents, and general wear and tear. Trip hazards on footways and pavements are a key concern at all times. While the problems of weeds, standing water and ice tend to be more seasonal.

Typical hazards and defects

Typical hazards and defects may include

  • Slab movement
  • Uneven ironwork
  • Potholes
  • Depressions
  • Cracking
  • Overhanging vegetation
  • Weed contamination of footway surface on busy footway (pavement)
  • Defective trenching with level difference
  • Standing water
  • Tarmac disintegration

When works are being undertaken on the highway, including pavements, the organisation carrying out those works is responsible for ensuring there is a safe route for pedestrians and other traffic.

Report a problem

If you have any concerns or problems regarding a footway or would like to report damage, please use our online forms:

or speak to us on the phone via Dudley Council Plus

Important

Please be aware that office hours are

  • Monday to Thursday 8.30am – 4.45pm
  • Friday 8.30am - 4.15pm
  • Weekends and bank holidays, Closed.

Contact will not be monitored outside of these times.

If the issue that you are raising requires immediate attention please do not complete a form but telephone our emergency number

Other issues

Paving stone theft

Theft of paving stones is a serious crime. Not only are the thieves creating a safety hazard for pedestrians, they are also stealing property. Please report any suspicious actions to the police. Calls will be treated in strict confidence. Do not make any direct approach to anyone suspected of stealing paving stones.
 
You report damage to the pavement by using our online form.

Footway and pavements on private streets

A private street is a street that we do not maintain. Streets that we don't manage might be in a condition not meeting the standard required of adopted streets. The responsibility for private streets, footways and pavements lies with the street owners. These are usually the people who live on the street.

Obstructed footways and pavements

Whether you're a driver or a pedestrian, you are entitled to a journey free of obstructions. This also applies to every adopted road, and footway and pavement within the Borough. Anything that blocks footways and pavements are considered to be causing an obstruction. These can occur for a variety of reasons, such as

  • A skip, scaffolding or hoarding is obstructing the footway or pavement
  • No barriers around streetworks or roadworks and building work is affecting pedestrian safety.
  • Building materials are blocking the footway or pavement.
  • An advertising board is blocking the footway or pavement.
  • Banners or bunting is causing an obstruction.
  • If you are found to be the cause of an obstruction on a road or footway and pavement, you may be liable for any costs incurred as the result of our action.

Once we have been notified of an obstruction, we will investigate and take appropriate action. Obstructions are free to report, and you can remain anonymous.

Parking on Footways and Pavements

We have a responsibility to keep our roads and footpaths safe to use. Illegally parked vehicles cost us thousands of pounds a year in damaged paving and damaged grass verges. They also cause serious problems for blind, disabled and older people. People are dissuaded from walking by damaged footways.