R. (Manchester City Council) v SSEFRA and ors

This is the first case in which the higher courts have considered the new powers to stop up footpaths on grounds of crime prevention contained in section 118B of the Highways Act 1980. Tim Buley appeared for the Defendant Secretary of State (SSEFRA). Sullivan J rejected all of the Claimant’s arguments, including, notably, those relating to the interpretation of section 118B. The decision will be of importance to any local authority wishing to employ these powers in the future. This is one of a number of ongoing claims in which Tim is acting on behalf of the SSEFRA.