Vehicle restraint barriers and pedestrian guardrails

Vehicle restraint barriers and pedestrian guardrails are used to separate pedestrians and vehicles from hazards. Find out more here.


Picture of guardrails on the side of  a road.

 Pedestrian guardrails are strategically positioned at road junctions and crossing points to safeguard both adults and children, ensuring their safety while maintaining an unobstructed view for motorists.


Picture of Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS) or Safety Fences that are used mostly on motorways, dual-carriageways, junctions and approaches to roundabouts.

Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS), also known as safety fences, are primarily installed on motorways, dual-carriageways, junctions, and approaches to roundabouts. Their primary function is to contain and redirect errant vehicles, preventing them from crossing central reservations into oncoming traffic or veering off the road in the event of an accident or collision.


Trip rail fencing, also known as knee rail fencing, is commonly used to mark the boundary in place such as car parks and alongside pathways.

Trip rail fencing, also known as knee rail fencing, serves multiple purposes. It clearly defines boundaries in areas like car parks and along pathways, and it effectively deters vehicles from encroaching onto grassy areas.

Maintenance standards

Vehicle restraint barriers

  • Damaged barriers will be made safe within 2 to 24 hours, depending on a risk assessment.
  • Permanent repairs will be completed within 7 days.

Pedestrian barriers and other fences

  • For those under the council's responsibility, damaged barriers and fences will be made safe within 2 to 24 hours, based on a risk assessment.
  • Permanent repairs will be completed within 28 days.

Report a problem

You can report a problem with barriers and guardrails online or call 0800 0232334.

Chat with us