Fencing

There is no legal obligation on Northwards or the Council to provide, repair or replace fencing - it's your responsibility. But we can make exceptions in some instances.

As part of our Decent Homes programme, we will be replacing some fencing to complement the work we are doing to homes and to give the area a lift. In some cases, we will install new fencing outside of this. However, because of demand, we have to prioritise how we provide fencing.

Priority 1

If there are children between one and five years of age in the property AND the front garden fencing is next to a main road, railway or waterway. This also applies to back garden fencing (under the same conditions) where there is no front garden. If any children are older than six AND have learning disabilities, they are included once a Local Services Manager has assessed the case. An assessment will also be needed for any children in this group who have autism, epilepsy, Asperger’s Syndrome and Attention Deficit Disorder.

Priority 2

If the fencing is deemed as necessary to support and protect someone who is experiencing neighbour nuisance that has progressed to the level of legal action. This will need to be determined on a case by case basis and must be authorised by the Local Services Manager.

Priority 3

All other boundary fencing that is not included in priority 1 or 2, including communal area fencing.

Priority is given to fencing that provides security, prevents crime and improves the environment. In some cases, a Local Services Manager might decide that hedges or planting might be more appropriate.

Fencing in this category is subject to Local Services Manager authorisation and to funding being available; and whether it meets the priorities agreed with councillors, tenant groups and Area Panels.

Priority 4

Fencing that provides a division between gardens or where fencing has not previously been provided.

In exceptional cases, the Local Services Manager can order fencing for reasons other than these.

Priority 3 and 4 fencing is only available to tenants who meet the criteria for being entered into the Northwards Xtra prize draw - this includes regularly paying rent and having paid off any rent arrears.

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