Environmental Improvement Service

Gating orders

Under the new Cleaner Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005, where it can be shown that the unrestricted use of a highway leads to antisocial behaviours, we can restrict the use of that highway by using a gating order.

We will always consult local residents and those who may be affected by the gating order on their views, either through direct contact or through public notices visible at the entrances and exits of the alleyway or service road.

The proposal to restrict use will also be advertised in a local paper and can be viewed on this web page or at the Town Hall in Barking.

After a period of consultation, usually 28 days and if decided to proceed with gating, the gating order will come into force and the alleyway or service road will then be closed to general use, either through a locked gate or fence.

The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act sets out a 6 week period following the making of a gating order for objectors to apply to the High Court to question its validity.

The High Court has the remit to consider whether the council has the power to make the order or that any requirement of the act was not complied with. A gating order may not be questioned in any legal proceedings outside of this 6 week period.