The Government hopes to make private roads across Bermuda safer and more accessible, the House of Assembly heard today.

Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, told MPs that residents face “overly complex administrative processes” when seeking to resolve issues on private roads.

Mr Adams explained: “We receive a steady stream of calls and e-mails from people trying to get potholes filled, retaining walls repaired or mirrors placed at blind corners. But too often, we respond with technical explanations of why, under the laws, the Government’s hands are tied.”

The Private Roads (Improvement) Act 1969 allows repairs to take place without upfront payment from residents, but does not permit payment to be completely waived.

Mr Adams said that proposed changes to the legislation, as well as the Private Roads (Lighting) Act 1984, were designed to “streamline the bureaucracy and would give the Government more flexibility to step in particularly when safety is on the line”.

The minister explained: “It is important to note that we are not seeking to override the voices of residents. But we are seeking to make sure that vital infrastructure improvements don’t get lost in endless paperwork or disputes between neighbours.

“The updated legislation will aim to balance community input with government responsiveness, so that when something needs to get done, it can get done.”

Members of the public can provide feedback on existing legislation through forum.gov.bm or a telephone survey that will start on September 22.

Mr Adams said: “This consultation isn’t just about fixing roads, it’s about building a country where safety, fairness and dignity aren’t limited by your postcode, where every voice matters, and every idea brings us closer to a system that works for all.”

• To see the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media

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Jache Adams Ministerial Statement September 12.pdf