Do I need permission for a dropped kerb?

Yes, you need to apply to your local council (highways authority) for a dropped kerb. In most of England, you apply via the council's highways department. The council will assess the location for safety, visibility splays and proximity to junctions. It's an offence to drive over a full-height kerb without a proper crossover. Costs typically range from £800-2,500 for the council to carry out the work.

How wide should a dropped kerb crossover be?

A single vehicle crossover is typically 2.7m wide (3 kerb units). A double crossover for two cars side-by-side is around 4.2-5.4m. Your council may have minimum and maximum width requirements. The width must be sufficient for your vehicle to enter and exit safely without overrunning the footpath.

What are transition kerbs?

Transition kerbs (also called taper or ramp kerbs) are the angled kerbs at each end of the dropped section that provide a smooth gradient from the full-height kerb down to the dropped level. You always need 2 transition kerbs — one at each end. They are typically more expensive than standard dropped kerbs.

Is tactile paving required?

Yes, tactile paving (blister paving) is required at all dropped kerb vehicle crossovers to alert visually impaired pedestrians that they are approaching a point where vehicles cross the footpath. The standard is a red blister surface 800mm deep (2 rows of 400mm pavers) across the full width of the crossover, per DfT guidance.

How much does a dropped kerb cost in the UK?

Council-installed dropped kerbs typically cost £800-2,500 depending on the width and local authority. If you hire a contractor (with council permission), costs are usually £1,000-3,000. You'll also need to reinstate the footpath with matching materials. Add the cost of your driveway surface separately.

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Dropped Kerb Calculator — Crossover Materials & Cost

Calculate dropped kerbs, transition kerbs, sub-base and tactile paving for a vehicle crossover.

Crossover TypeStandard crossover widths

Footpath Width

Width of pavement to reinstate

Dropped Kerb Price

Per dropped kerb unit

Transition Kerb Price

Per transition/taper kerb

Concrete Price

How We Calculate This

This calculator determines the materials needed for a dropped kerb vehicle crossover including kerb units, sub-base and tactile paving.

Kerb count

Dropped Kerbs = ceil(Crossover Width / 0.915m)
Transition Kerbs = 2 (one each end)
Standard dropped kerbs and transitions are 915mm long to BS EN 1340.

Footpath reinstatement

Sub-base depth is typically 150mm for pedestrian loading or up to 300mm for heavy vehicle crossings. Tactile paving area = crossover width x 0.8m (2 rows).