Work Plan 2025 - 2026 and FAQ's

Work Plan 2025 - 2026

How long can a TRO or PPO take?

A TRO can take between 12 and 18 months to deliver, however this would depend on the complexity of the scheme and the consultations that must be undertaken. 

What schemes require a TRO or a PPO?

All parking management schemes require a TRO or PPO and can only be proposed for the reasons set out in the legislation. A scheme can only be proposed if the regulations allow it. 

What other Highway restrictions will require a TRO?

TROs are required for almost all Highway related traffic management. In addition to those listed in our main document under paragraph 5, the following Highways Functions will also need a TRO. However, St Albans City and District Council do not have the authority to manage these, and they can only be done by Hertfordshire County Council (HCC). 

• Speed limits
• Weight limits
• One-way streets and banned turns (no left or right turn etc.)
• Prohibition of driving, pedestrian areas 

What factors make a priority assessment of a TRO?

• Safety (collision reduction and speeding)
• Benefits to public transport and cycling
• Routes to school and community facilities
• Air quality, congestion, and environmental benefits
• Level of community buy in to the scheme including financial contribution
• Level of contribution from member's highways local allocation

Once a scheme has been considered against the points above and a priority established, the first set of proposals can be drafted for consultation. 

What is a typical process to a TRO or PPO?

A typical TRO or PPO process includes the following:

• An advert will appear in the Herts Ad advertising the Traffic Regulation Order.
• We will make all Ward Councillors, Parish and Town Councils aware of the Consultation so they can inform residents and businesses what is happening.
• We will liaise with statutory bodies such as blue light services and the County Council.
• The Consultation will be on our website, and we will also place signs in the limited bays advertising the Traffic Regulation Orders.
• There will be no Public Consultation meetings.

Members of the public will be able to view the map based order online or at the Civic Centre, they will be able to respond online using our appyware software, or email/ write to us directly. 

Can I comment on a proposed TRO?

Yes, the formal consultation stage of a TRO or PPO is open for all to comment on within a 21-day period. 

Where can I find the proposed TRO?

The proposed scheme will be advertised in the local press and uploaded to the Councils website. A copy will also be sent to all appropriate Ward Councillors within the areas of consultation. 

Live TROs

What is the difference between a TRO and a PPO?

• A TRO is used to regulate and control traffic movement. In our case, anything that prohibits the movement or parking/ waiting of vehicles would be within a TRO.
• A PPO is implemented for all parking places such as permit parking, disabled parking, loading bays etc.

Whilst there is a difference, generally all the orders are referenced under the TRO label as an industry standard.

What happens if significant changes are made?

If significant changes are required following the formal consultation, then the amendments will need to be made and re-consulted for a further 21-days to allow further comments. Alternatively, the process can be restarted with the newly amended scheme. 

What happens when a TRO is approved?

Once the legal process is completed and sealed the scheme can be implemented. If it is a permit scheme, we will normally give around 3 months before a scheme goes live to allow for the lines and signs of a scheme to be implemented and residents to acquire permits. 

How long does it take for the signs and lines to be carried and are they needed?

Signs and lines to support the restrictions are usually implemented within the 3 months and are in most cases, legally required. Signs and lines are governed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 and Councils must adhere to it. The time of year and weather conditions may alter the timing of implementation as lining can only be laid in appropriate conditions.