Dropped kerbs
How do I apply?
Read the guidance then make your application online.
What is a dropped kerb?
A dropped kerb, sometimes called a ‘cross over’, is a lowered, sloped section of pavement that allows a vehicle to be driven across the pavement on to a hard standing on the front of the property.
How much do they cost?
Dropped kerbs can vary in cost due to the size and the work involved in creating them, the average cost is around £2000-£2500. Lampposts, street furniture or utilities either where the dropped kerb will be, or near it can increase the cost as these may need to be moved or adjusted.
The price of the application is £150; this is a non refundable charge that covers the initial assessment and detailed checks. If the application is approved, there is an administration charge of £590 that is included in the quote for the dropped kerb.
How long does it take?
The dropped kerb process can take up to 12 weeks, the schedule runs as follows:
| Period | Stage | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| 4 weeks | Pre-assessment | When an application is submitted a series of detailed checks are made with departments such as trees, planning, traffic, street lighting and parking, along with site visits to confirm dimensions. During this period there will be no updates available. |
| 7 working days | Assessment | Once the application has passed all the checks an officer conducts an in-depth site visit to verify the measurements and the other details supplied in the application. A decision is made whether the application is approved or refused after this visit and the customer notified. |
| Up to 6 weeks | Construction | If the application is approved, the contractor is then notified who schedules the work. This can take up to 6 weeks, with the building of the dropped kerb taking from 3-5 days (depending on size, complexity and whether any utilities need moving). |
What is a hard standing?
A hard standing (also known as a drive / driveway / forecourt) is the area at the front of the property made of pervious material the vehicle will be parked on.
It is important that the hard standing is completed to the required standard before any work begins to strengthen the footway and build the dropped the kerb.
What is the required standard of hard standings?
Hard standings must allow water to run off into the soil below, if you’re intending to use blocks or slabs, spaces must be left to allow water to drain in-between ( known as a permeable hard standing) or use gravel to allow water to infiltrate through the entire surface of the material (porous hard standing)
Suggested permeable materials are Mono Blocks (concrete blocks or bricks), paving slab, gravel and slab or gravel only. The Planning Portal has more information on constructing a hard standing.
Important
Do not start any works on your hard standing until you have received approval for your dropped kerb.