Dropped kerbs
A dropped kerb (also known as a vehicle access, pavement crossover or driveway access) allows vehicles to enter a driveway or parking area from the road. As Highway Authority, the County Council is responsible for regulating the placement and construction of dropped kerbs within the public highway under Section 184 of The Highways Act 1980.
In order to have a dropped kerb installed to access the public highway, you must seek consent from the County Council. This consent is to ensure that any proposed crossing does not present a safety hazard to other users of the highway and to ensure that all works are carried out to the appropriate construction standards.
If you would like to apply for a new dropped kerb or extend an existing dropped kerb, you must first check whether the road is public highway maintained by Cambridgeshire County Council.
We will only assess dropped kerb applications on roads we maintain.
This form shouldn’t be used for temporary vehicle accesses, for example to construction sites. In these cases, a Short Form Section 278 form should be used instead. Visit our Highways development page for further information and how to apply.
Before you apply, please ensure you have read the Procedure and specification for the construction of vehicle access crossings over footways, cycleways and verges document, which is available below.
To apply for a dropped kerb, please use the online form below.
During the online application you will need to pay £400 by credit or debit card. This charge covers all of our inspection fees (no VAT to pay).
Once an application is received, it will be assessed by the Council’s Highway Development Management team. A site visit may be undertaken to assess the viability of the application, giving consideration of the design criteria set out in the specification and any other factors considered relevant by the determining officer. The determining officer shall contact the applicant during this process for additional information if required.
A decision will be reached within six weeks of the application, and the applicant will be notified accordingly.
If your application is successful, you will need to employ a contractor to carry out the work. You or your contractor should then complete the booking a road space application form before commencing any work.
You and your contractor should read and adhere to the procedure and specification for the construction of dropped kerbs as set out in the dropped kerb specification and procedure guidance.
If your application is unsuccessful you will receive a refund of £300. Refunds will be made by bank transfer.
Access protection markings
An access protection marking is a white line that marks the length of a dropped kerb. It helps to make drivers aware of an access point which must not be obstructed. It is also known as 'H' marking.
During the online application you need to pay £120 by credit or debit card. If your application is unsuccessful you will receive a full refund.
After you have completed your application an officer will visit the site within two weeks to assess the location.
Blue Badge holders may be eligible to have an access protection marking installed at their property free of charge. Payment is required upon application, but this may be refunded depending on eligibility and available funds.
