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Dropped kerbs, also known as kerb ramps or lowered kerbs, are a common sight in the UK. These lowered sections of the pavement provide a convenient access point for car access to your driveway or for people using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Even though we are approved dropped kerb contractors in Sheffield it doesn't mean we can simply install one for you at your request.
Before and construction activity can take place you will need to request permission from the council.
There will be a charge for your application, currently £120 for domestic applications and £230 for light industrial applications with the council currently stating that the waiting times for approving applications are around 3-4 months. Whilst wating can be a frustration it is important to go through the proper planning channels.
Once you have your application approved them work on your dripped kerb can begin. Work should be carried out by approved highway contractors such as ourselves. This typically involves excavating the area where the dropped kerb will be installed, laying a suitable foundation, and then laying the dropped kerb itself using concrete or other appropriate materials which closely match the existing pavement type. The installation must meet certain specifications and regulations to ensure safety and accessibility. It is important to note that the cost of installing a dropped kerb is borne by the homeowner or property owner requesting the dropped kerb, which is paid directly to the contractor (ourselves in this instance) rather than the council.
Yes, there are different types of dropped kerbs in the UK. There are two main types of dropped kerbs commonly found in the UK. The first type is a tactile dropped kerb, which has a textured surface to provide an indication for visually impaired individuals. These tactile dropped kerbs have a series of raised bumps or bars that can be felt by a cane or underfoot. The second type is a standard dropped kerb, which is a lowered section of the kerb that allows for easier access for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. These standard dropped kerbs do not have a textured surface like tactile dropped kerbs but still provide a level surface for crossing the road safely. It is this type of dropped kerb that we mostly install as the main purpose is to allow access to your driveway with your vehicle from the road.
In the UK, a dropped kerb is legally defined as a lowered section of the pavement or sidewalk that allows vehicles to cross from the road onto a driveway or private property. This lowered section is typically marked with tactile paving or a painted white line to indicate its presence. The purpose of a dropped kerb is to provide a smooth transition between the road and private property, allowing vehicles to enter or exit safely without causing damage to the pavement or obstructing pedestrian access. It is important for individuals to obtain the necessary permissions and follow the regulations set by local authorities when installing or modifying a dropped kerb to ensure compliance with the law.
We are approved dropped kerb installers and have many years of experience installing dropped kerbs. As we are also experienced in installing most types of driveways it means that we can blend in or extend your existing driveway up to your dropped kerb without having to find another contractor for that.
Go to the Sheffield council website and then search for 'dropped kerbs' and you should find the page with the application form.
In the UK, the responsibility for installing and maintaining dropped kerbs typically lies with the local authorities or the highways department of the local council. These organizations are responsible for ensuring that public streets and footpaths are accessible and safe for pedestrians, including those with mobility challenges. They are tasked with installing dropped kerbs at appropriate locations, such as pedestrian crossings or areas with high foot traffic, to facilitate easy access for individuals using wheelchairs, pushing strollers, or utilizing other mobility aids. Regular maintenance and repairs of dropped kerbs are also the responsibility of these local authorities to ensure their continued functionality and safety.