Council has provided in principle support to a process leading to a Council declaration of laneways to be officially registered as public highways under Section 204 of the Local Government Act.
There are multiple laneways across Ballarat that provide access for properties and have usually been established on Parish plans pre-1988.
While owned by the City of Ballarat, laneways have at times been occupied by parties in an exclusive manner disadvantaging other users, with this policy position establishing a clear mechanism for these type of issues to be resolved.
A Council declaration of laneways as public highways would provide the City of Ballarat with clear control and allow for removal of unlawful obstructions, such as gates and fences.
Council's decision will save on legal costs, time and property owner anxiety in dealing with laneway disputes.
