Members of the public have been invited to share thoughts on improving the laws regulating private roads in Bermuda.

The Ministry of Public Works and Environment has launched online public consultation on proposed amendments to the Private Roads (Improvement) Act 1969 and the Private Roads (Lighting) Act 1984 through forum.gov.bm.

Until October 22, the public will be able to review the proposals and complete a survey to help inform the Government’s approach to modernising the legislation.

The proposals would allow the Government, where appropriate, to install street lighting, safety mirrors and traffic-calming measures on private roads, along with repairing retaining walls and paving unsealed roads when public safety or access is at risk.

The proposals aim to simplify the approval and cost-sharing process, which some residents have found overly complex.

Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and the Environment, said: “Bermudians have long raised concerns about deteriorating conditions on private roads and the difficulty of making necessary improvements.

“Too often, safety upgrades are delayed by outdated processes and complex requirements.

“We want to ensure that the Government can respond more effectively, especially where public safety is at risk, while still valuing community input. This consultation gives every resident the opportunity to shape how these laws should evolve.”

Mr Adams urged the public to read the consultation material and provide their feedback to help ensure fairness, safety and practicality.

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

Mr Adams told the House of Assembly this month the proposed changes to the legislation were designed to “streamline the bureaucracy and would give the Government more flexibility to step in, particularly when safety is on the line”.

He added: “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.”