GUIDANCE NOTES FOR OBTAINING NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH STREET SIGNS
	Neighbourhood Watch Street Signs are a visible reminder to all residents that there is an active scheme within their area. They help to create a cohesive neighbourhood identity. They also act as a potent symbol to any would-be criminal.
1. Once a neighbourhood watch scheme has been established, street signs may be obtained and displayed at various points, depending on the size and complexity of the scheme area. 2. For small schemes, i.e. one road, two street signs (one at either end of the road) should be sufficient. For larger schemes, i.e. estates, street signs at each and every entrance might be considered (see note 6 below – costs). 3. Written authority to erect such signs (they are referred to as notices) must be obtained from East Sussex County Council, Transport and Environment, Highways Division. An application, in writing, should be made to the above, to include details of number required and specific location(s). 4. All street notices have to comply with regulations in terms of size, colour and erection, therefore, only the Council’s approved supplier/contractors can be used. Details are provided with any letter of approval. 5. In addition to written permission, the applicant will be provided with a licence in respect of each and every street notice. The licence(s) will include strict conditions, which must be complied with. Attached to the licence is a plan detailing their location and facing-direction. 6. The cost of a street notice is £45, plus £15 for erection. V.A.T. is then added to the final sum! (Total for each notice = £70.50p.) Obviously these prices are subject to change as they are provided by the Council’s “Approved Contractor”. 7. The above costs are based on the assumption that the notices will simply be attached to existing posts (lamp columns), owned by the Council. This avoids legal issues when placing on walls, fences, etc., as well the additional cost of providing bespoke fixings. 8. Members of NHW Schemes may choose to provide their own funds for such street signs; however, funds may be obtained from other organisations. Your local Police Neighbourhood Watch Liaison Officer should be able to advise and assist. 9. And finally: - The process, as described above, is simple and straightforward. However, patience is an essential requirement, as experience shows that it can take quite a while to complete! NOTE: STREET SIGNS CAN NOW BE OBTAINED FROM THE SUSSEX NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH FEDERATION On receipt of the licence (5. above), the sign is obtained via the Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Federation by sending an order form (obtainable from their website), copy of the licence, and cheque for £32.50. Ask the Federation to send the sign, via the Police Network, to Lewes Police Station. When it arrives, the person requesting the sign will be notified and asked to collect, or delivery will be arranged. Mr Chris Burt Lewes Town and Rural Neighbourhood Watch Committee February 2010 Return to index
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