Are you considering installing a tarmac driveway for your home in Worksop? Well, before you proceed, it’s important to understand the legalities surrounding dropped kerbs. Tarmac driveways are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, did you know that it is a legal requirement to have a dropped kerb in order to access your driveway?
The Highway Code rule 243 clearly states that parking or stopping in front of an entrance to a property is not allowed, and this is usually indicated by the presence of a dropped kerb. So, while having a tarmac driveway without a dropped kerb is not illegal, blocking access to the driveway if there is a dropped kerb could result in a fine of £100 and three penalty points on your license.
A dropped kerb is a flattened pavement that allows cars to easily drive over it and access the driveway from the road. It also ensures safe pedestrian crossing. To obtain a dropped kerb outside your house, you will need to apply through your local council and obtain permission. The cost of a dropped kerb varies depending on factors such as the area of the footpath and any additional features like utility boxes or lighting columns.
So, when considering a tarmac driveway for your Worksop home, remember to adhere to the legal requirements and obtain a dropped kerb for easy access and compliance with the Highway Code. Stay tuned for the upcoming sections of this article, where we’ll dive deeper into the process of applying for a dropped kerb, legal considerations, and planning permission.
Applying for a Dropped Kerb
If you need a dropped kerb outside your property, the first step is to apply for one through your local council. The application process is straightforward and involves filling out a request for a quotation. There is usually a quotation fee of around £70 that needs to be paid at this stage. Once you’ve submitted the application and paid the fee, an officer from the council will visit your property to assess the situation.
The officer will take measurements and photographs of the existing footway to determine the scope of work required for the dropped kerb construction. Within 10 days of the assessment, you will receive a detailed quotation outlining the costs involved. It’s essential to review the quotation carefully and ensure all the necessary information is included. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the council for clarification.
Once you’ve reviewed the quotation and are ready to proceed, you’ll need to pay the full amount specified in the quotation. Once the council has received the payment, the construction of the dropped kerb can commence.
The council aims to complete crossings within 28 working days from the receipt of payment, ensuring a timely and efficient process.
If you prefer, you may choose to use your own contractor for the construction of the dropped kerb.
However, it’s important to note that the contractor must meet certain criteria and obtain an opening up notice from the highway authority.
This ensures that the construction work is carried out to the required standards and guidelines set by the council.
Table: Dropped Kerb Application Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fill out the application form for a dropped kerb quotation. |
| 2 | Pay the quotation fee of £70. |
| 3 | An officer from the council will visit your property to assess the site. |
| 4 | Receive a detailed quotation with the cost breakdown. |
| 5 | Review the quotation and contact the council for any clarifications. |
| 6 | Pay the full amount specified in the quotation. |
| 7 | Construction of the dropped kerb can commence. |
Legal Considerations and Planning Permission
Before proceeding with your application for a dropped kerb, it is important to understand the legal considerations and planning permission requirements that may apply. Depending on the location of your proposed vehicle crossing, you may need to obtain planning permission from the planning department. This is especially true if the crossing is to be positioned on a principal road or classified road. These roads typically have stricter regulations in place to ensure safety and proper traffic flow.
It is recommended to consult with your local council or a solicitor to clarify any land easements, ownership issues, or rights of way associated with the dropped kerb. Each situation may be unique, and it is important to have a clear understanding of the legalities involved. Some roads may also fall under different categories, such as trunk roads or unadopted roads, which may have their own specific rules and regulations.
Table: Road Categories and Planning Permission Requirements
| Road Category | Planning Permission Required? |
|---|---|
| Principal Road | Yes |
| Classified Road | Yes |
| Trunk Road | Consult local council |
| Unadopted Road | Consult local council |
It is worth noting that the local council does not typically construct private driveways within a property.
However, they can provide valuable information on reputable contractors through their public website. These contractors will have experience working within the regulations and guidelines governing dropped kerb construction, ensuring a smooth and compliant process.
By taking the time to understand the legal considerations and planning permission requirements, you can proceed with your dropped kerb application more confidently.
This knowledge will help you navigate the necessary steps and comply with all regulations, ensuring the safety, accessibility, and legal compliance of your new driveway.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a tarmac driveway without a dropped kerb is not illegal in the United Kingdom. However, it is a legal requirement to have a dropped kerb in order to access a driveway in front of your house. This is important to ensure the safety and accessibility of your property.
When applying for a dropped kerb, it is crucial to follow the proper procedures and obtain permission from your local council. Consider any legal considerations and planning permission requirements that may be applicable to your situation. Consulting with the council or a solicitor can help clarify any land easements, ownership issues, or rights of way associated with the dropped kerb.
By adhering to the necessary steps and complying with the legalities involved, you can enjoy the convenience of a tarmac driveway while ensuring that you are abiding by the rules and regulations regarding parking and blocking access to driveways. Remember that blocking access to a driveway with a dropped kerb can result in fines and penalty points on your license.
If you are considering getting a tarmac driveway and need assistance with the dropped kerb construction, reputable contractors like Tarmac Driveway Worksop can help. They specialize in professional tarmac driveway services in Worksop. Contact them at https://asphaltdrivewayworksop.co.uk/ to learn more about their offerings and get a quote for your project.
Call us to get a price quote on a tarmac. Contact us today on 07595 510190 to receive a free quote or visit our website.