Dropped Kerb – Vehicle Crossover Design & Planning
We specialise in dropped kerb (vehicle crossover) planning and design, helping homeowners and developers across the UK gain safe, lawful access to their properties. With expert understanding of UK legislation and local authority requirements, we make the process smooth from application to construction.
What Is a Dropped Kerb?
Dropped kerbs are pavement ramps that enable smooth transitions from the road to driveways or development access roads. A dropped kerb—also known as a vehicle crossover—involves lowering the kerb and strengthening the footway so vehicles can safely access private land without damaging the pavement or underlying utilities.
This is a legal requirement under several UK laws and regulations to ensure both public safety and infrastructure integrity.
UK Legislation Governing Dropped Kerbs
When applying for a dropped kerb or vehicle crossover, several key pieces of legislation apply:
- Highways Act 1980 – Section 184
This is the primary legal basis for creating or modifying access to a public highway. Local highway authorities have the power to approve or refuse crossover applications and to specify the conditions of construction. - Town and Country Planning Act 1990 – Section 57
Planning permission may be required depending on your local council’s policy, especially in conservation areas or where a new access is being created. - The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
This governs how works are carried out on the highway, especially when utility services may be affected or street furniture needs to be relocated. - Traffic Management Act 2004
Local authorities may impose conditions or coordinate works to minimise disruption to traffic and pedestrians. - Building Regulations 2010 – Part H (Drainage and Waste Disposal)
Driveways must comply with surface water drainage rules, particularly where they connect to the public highway. - Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) All works on or near the highway require appropriate health and safety risk assessments, particularly under CDM guidelines for contractors and designers.
Key Benefits of a Legal, Compliant Dropped Kerb
- Avoid Fines or Enforcement – Unauthorised vehicle access over a pavement can result in penalties and legal action
- Enhance Property Value – A legal driveway access can boost value by up to 10%
- Sell Faster – Properties with off-street parking are more desirable in urban areas
- Comply with Local and National Planning Rules
- Protect Infrastructure – Proper construction prevents damage to pavements and buried services
Planning & Eligibility Criteria
Most local authorities require the following for a dropped kerb or vehicle crossover:
For Residential Driveway Access:
- At least 4.8m/5m between the back of the footway and the front of the property
- A minimum access width of 2.4m
- Location must be at least 10m from a junction
- Comply with pedestrian and vehicular visibility splays
- Meet vehicle swept path analysis requirements
- Must not conflict with existing street furniture or trees
- Comply with local drainage and flood prevention measures
For Development Access Roads:
- Must span full width of access road
- Require Section 278 Agreement under the Highways Act 1980
- Full technical design, safety audit, and CDM documents are mandatory
Cost of Dropped Kerbs in the UK
Typical costs include:
- Application Fee: £150 – £300 (varies by local authority)
- Construction Cost: £2000 on average subject to size, materials subject to impact on street furniture and utilities.
Our Design
As part of our Section 278 highway design consultancy, Sands Civil Engineering offers:
- Vehicle crossover design drawings
- CDM-compliant documentation
- Road Safety Audits (RSA) if required
We work directly with local councils and stakeholders to ensure a compliant, efficient process tailored to your needs.
