How to apply for a dropped kerb

Once you’ve completed the application form and paid the fee, we’ll arrange for an inspector to visit who will approve or reject your application.

Approved dropped kerb application

We’ll write to you to confirm approval of your dropped kerb application. We’ll include estimated construction costs and any conditions.

Once we receive payment and any additional work or conditions have been met, we can complete construction within 8 weeks. 

Each dropped kerb approval is valid for 1 year.

Rejected dropped kerb application

We’ll write to you to explain why your application has been refused.

The most common reasons for refusal are:

• not enough space. Your parking area must be at least 4.8 metres long and 2.7 metres wide.
• trees and grass verges. We aim to preserve the borough’s stock of street trees. We refused applications if a tree on the street is likely to be affected
• safety and visibility. We may reject your application if your property is on a bend or too close to a school crossing.

Appeals 

The decision made by officers of the Highway Authority is considered full and final. You will receive a Decision Notice once the application has been decided.

Appeals will only be allowed if there are exceptional circumstances, which can be demonstrated by the applicant, and may be considered at the discretion of the Highways and Transport Group Manager, or other senior manager) and the Council’s decision is final.

If your application has been refused and you believe that we have not followed our procedures or applied our standards appropriately (i.e. made a mistake) write to us detailing your reasons. We will respond to you within 10 working days

What extended dropped kerbs will look like

When we make an extension to an existing dropped kerb, the appearance or texture will look different to the old surface. This isn’t due to faulty workmanship or materials. 

If this is a concern, the inspector dealing with your application will be able to give you some options and the associated additional costs to minimise the difference.

Dropped kerb levels

Dropped kerbs provide proper cross fall and drainage of the footway. 

We’re not required to meet the existing threshold level of your property. However, we may make minor accommodations if appropriate and with the owner’s consent.

Sustainable drainage 

You must construct your hardstanding to allow for sustainable drainage. Surface water needs to drain into the adjacent ground or soak away. Driveways that drain directly into your existing surface water connection to the sewer or drain onto the highway will not be approved.

Reading the government’s guidance on creating driveways with sufficient drainage could be helpful.

Loose material surfaces on driveways 

You’ll need to provide an adequate and permanent retaining strip to prevent loose surface material from spilling onto the highway. The strip should be a minimum of 400mm wide and at least 40mm above the level of the hard-standing to retain the loose material.