NRA goes to war on nature

(CNS): Overgrown hedges protruding over fences, hedges planted beyond boundary lines and landscaping at the front of properties as well as large boulders placed at the roadside are among the target of a National Roads Authority (NRA) campaign to clear local roads of obstructions.

The NRA said it wished to remind the public that it is an offence to obstruct the roadside or road shoulder that fronts private properties. Familiar obstructions include overgrown hedges that protrude over fences or garbage receptacles positioned too close to the road among others.

The NRA said there were even more hazardous obstructions such as freight containers, often left on the road for off-loading in front of private properties. These pose a great risk for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, especially at night on narrow streets the NRA added.

The Authority stated that encroachments of sidewalks and road corridors comprise a violation of Section 16 of the Roads Law. Such infringements may also extend to landscaping efforts made on the narrow strips of ground fronting private properties.

“It may help to remember that the majority of Cayman’s roadways consist of a carriageway (for motor vehicles) and a narrow strip (usually 3-10 ft wide) for pedestrians,” said NRA Transportation Planner Marion Pandohie. “What is inside your property is yours to do with as you will, but land beyond your property or fence line is considered public roadway.”

Under the Roads Law, road encroachments can carry fines of up to $5,000 and after serving notice, the NRA may remove or reduce the obstruction at cost to the owner. The Authority will be systematically striving to address these infringements.