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Dropped kerbs, also referred to as kerb ramps or lowered kerbs, are lowered sections of the pavement serving as convenient access points. They facilitate car access to driveways and assist individuals using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and pushchairs.
As experienced dropped kerb contractors in Nottingham, we are an ideal choice if you have or are about to change the access and driveway at your property.
However, we cannot install one solely at your request. Prior to any construction activities, you must obtain permission from the council. There is a fee for your application. Currently, a little over one hundred pounds for domestic applications and over two hundred pounds for light industrial applications.
If you haven't already obtained permission it we would advisable to do so first before arranging quotations. It is worth asking ow long before you should expect a decision from them as sometimes backlogs can run into months! While this waiting period can be frustrating, it is essential to adhere to the proper planning channels so that once approved all parties can progress without challenges.
Upon approval of your application, work on your dropped kerb may commence. The process generally begins with excavating the designated area for the dropped kerb. A suitable foundation is then laid, followed by the installation of the dropped kerb using concrete or other materials that closely match the existing pavement. It is essential that the installation adheres to specific regulations and specifications to ensure safety and accessibility. Please note that the costs associated with installing a dropped kerb are the responsibility of the homeowner or property owner who made the request at the council btu that is where council involvement ends. Payment for the works carried out should be made directly to the dropped kerb contractor, which we hope will be ourselves in this case.
In the UK, there are two main types of dropped kerbs. The first type is a tactile dropped kerb. This type has a textured surface designed to assist visually impaired individuals. It features a series of raised bumps or bars that can be detected by a cane or felt underfoot.
The second type is a standard dropped kerb and are the dropped kerbs we specialist in as these are the ones residential home owners normally require. This is a lowered section of the kerb that facilitates easier access for vehicles. Unlike tactile dropped kerbs, standard dropped kerbs lack a textured surface. However, they provide a level surface for safe road crossing point for members of the public who may struggle to get up a normal kerb. The primary purpose of standard dropped kerbs is to allow vehicle access to driveways from the road.
Our experience and attention to detail. When it comes to dropped kerbs, we ensure they are built to conform with your approval documentation.
Yes, creating a dropped kerb typically requires adherence to specific regulations and obtaining the necessary permissions from local authorities. This is because a dropped kerb, which allows vehicles to access a property from the road, can affect pedestrian pathways, drainage systems, and overall road safety. Nottingham Council require individuals to submit a formal application, which may include providing plans and details of the proposed work. In addition, there are often guidelines regarding the width and specifications of the dropped kerb - which clearly the contractor will need to be aware of to ensure compliance with the approval so that the change won't obstruct traffic or pose risks to pedestrians. Failure to obtain proper permissions can result in fines or the requirement to undo the modifications which is why we ill ask to see this prior to commencing any work.
The responsibility for the maintenance and repair of dropped kerbs typically falls on local government authorities or municipal councils, as they ensure that public pathways and access points meet safety and accessibility standards. These agencies are tasked with maintaining infrastructure for pedestrians and wheelchair users, which includes proper installation and upkeep of dropped kerbs. Whilst you will be responsible for the initial construction of a new or modification of an existing dropped kerbs, ongoing maintenance is generally managed by local authorities to ensure compliance with regulations and to address any wear and tear caused by weather or usage. The exception to this will be private roads.
Yes, a dropped kerb can be refused, and there are several common reasons for such a decision. One of the primary concerns is safety; if the proposed dropped kerb location poses a risk to pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles, it may be denied. Additionally, if the drop kerb would obstruct access for emergency services or interfere with existing utilities, such as drainage systems, this could lead to a refusal. Local planning policies and requirements also play a significant role, as applications might be turned down if they don't align with designated regulations or local development plans. Furthermore, if there is insufficient space for a vehicle to safely maneuver on or off the road, this is likely to lead to a refusal as well.