Drop Kerbs Ringwood

Planning permission requirements depend on your road classification. If your property is on a classified road (A, B, or C road), you will typically need planning permission before installing a drop kerb. For unclassified roads, planning permission may not be required, though you’ll still need approval from the local highway authority. Properties on classified roads, listed buildings, or those in conservation areas usually require planning permission. It’s best to check with BCP Council to confirm your specific requirements.

The average cost for installing a drop kerb in Ringwood ranges from £1,000 to £2,500, depending on various factors. This typically includes labour and materials for the kerb installation itself. Additional costs may include council application fees (£50-£430), planning permission fees if required (£50-£400), inspection fees (around £200), and potential utility relocation costs. The total cost depends on the width of the pavement, number of kerbs to drop, and any obstacles that need moving such as street lights or utility boxes.

Yes, it is illegal to drive over a pavement on a public highway without a properly installed drop kerb. Even if you use portable kerb ramps, driving over the pavement without an authorised drop kerb is against the law and enforcement action can be taken. You may become liable for collisions with pedestrians, damage to the pavement, underground utilities, or face considerable repair costs. A drop kerb must be properly installed by licensed contractors with the council’s approval.

The actual construction and installation of a drop kerb typically takes 1 to 2 days once work begins. However, the entire process from application to completion takes much longer. After submitting your application, you should expect to wait 8 to 16 weeks for council approval or refusal. Once approved and payment is made, most councils aim to complete the installation within 28 working days, though this varies by location and scheduling availability.

For a standard residential property in Ringwood, your front garden or driveway must be at least 4.8 metres deep (measured from the house to the pavement edge) to accommodate vehicles safely. The minimum width for a drop kerb is typically 2.4 to 2.7 metres for a single vehicle, and can be extended up to 4.5 metres for wider access. If parking in front of a main door or garage, the depth requirement may increase to 5.5 metres to ensure safe access and egress.

No, once your drop kerb is installed, it is illegal for other vehicles to park fully or partially across it. Parking across a dropped kerb is classified as an obstruction and can be enforced. However, it’s important to note that paying for a drop kerb installation doesn’t mean you own the pavement or road – this remains the responsibility of the council. The drop kerb simply gives you legal right of access across the pavement to your property.

This depends on your local council’s policy. Some councils require you to use their approved contractors or may carry out the work themselves for a fixed fee. Other councils, including BCP Council which covers Ringwood, may allow you to use your own contractor provided they meet certain requirements. Any contractor must be accredited under the New Roads and Street Works Act and hold appropriate public liability insurance (typically £5 million or more). The contractor must also follow council specifications and the work will be inspected to ensure it meets safety standards.