Highways Act 1980
Councils are currently addressing highway use and public rights of way under the Highways Act 1980, with recent decisions on street trading and footpath modifications.
Newham Council's Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee refused a temporary street trading licence for a food truck in August 2026, following objections from the council's Highways & Sustainable Transport Team regarding safety and legality. Separately, Hackney Council's Enforcement Service issued 1,677 Fixed Penalty Notices in 2025-26, including under the Highways Act 1980, for issues such as obstructions.
Hounslow Council's Publishable Officer Decisions committee was scheduled in September 2026 to consider an application to modify the Definitive Map and Statement concerning a public footpath at Brentford Dock Estate. The Highways Act 1980 is UK legislation that consolidates and amends the law relating to highways, including public rights of way and their diversion.
Key facts
- Newham Council's Licensing Sub-Committee refused a food truck licence in August 2026 due to safety and legality concerns. Source
- Hackney's Enforcement Service issued 1,677 Fixed Penalty Notices in 2025-26, including under the Highways Act 1980. Source
- Harrow Council extended its highways contract with JB Riney for 18 months in October 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.