Dropped kerbs and crossovers

A dropped kerb (vehicle crossover) lowers the kerb and strengthens the footway so vehicles can cross between the road and private property.

You must apply for permission before installation.

Before you apply

  • Check your location meets the criteria
  • Agree to our terms and conditions
  • If you are on an A, B or C road you need planning permission first
  • Permission from the Highway Authority (Network Resilience and Management) is always required.

Key requirements

  • No conflict with street furniture (bus stops, poles, benches)
  • Clearance:
    • 1 metre from mature trees, 2 metres from new trees
    • 15 metres from junctions
  • Minimum parking space: 6 metres depth x 2.75 metres width
  • Gates must not open onto the footway or road (Section 153 Highways Act 1980)
  • Lighting columns may be moved at extra cost
  • Trees with preservation orders will not be removed

Width limits

  • Standard single crossing: 3 flat kerbs and 2 tapered kerbs
  • Maximum width: 5 flat kerbs and 2 tapered kerbs
  • Shared crossings: combined width must not exceed 8 flat kerbs and 2 tapered kerbs

Using a contractor

You cannot use your own contractor. Work is carried out by our Highway Delivery Unit within 10 weeks of payment.

Costs

  • Standard crossing: £1,995 plus VAT
  • Extension: £1,596 plus VAT
  • Application fee: £120 (non-refundable if approved, £60 refunded if refused)
  • Removing redundant crossings: £449 per m2

How to apply

You'll need:

  • Property owner consent
  • Sketch with measurements
  • Photo of the area
  • Planning permission (if required)

You cannot assume permission will be given. If you don't hear from us within 28 working days, contact us.

Shared applications: both properties must apply. Costs will be split.

Apply for a vehicle crossing

After approval

  • Pay in full before work starts
  • Installed crossing becomes part of the Council's maintenance assets

Processing time

  • Up to 28 working days for decision
  • Applications accepted January to November
  • Installation may be delayed in winter due to weather

How we process vehicle crossing applications

Application process

  • Applications are accepted January to November. Winter installations may be delayed due to weather.
  • Once we receive your application:
    1. A Traffic Officer will check your site against the criteria.
    2. We will decide to approve or decline preliminary consent within 28 working days (longer if volumes are high).
  • If approved, we will confirm the design and send details to our Highways Delivery Team.
  • If declined, we will email you with reasons, such as:
    • Site does not meet criteria
    • Insufficient frontage
    • Poor visibility
    • Too close to street furniture, junctions, crossings, trees or signals
    • Existing crossover already in place
    • Non-payment of fees

Minor changes may be suggested (for example, fewer kerbs) to allow approval.

Appeals

  • Each application is considered on its own merits. The Highway Authority’s decision is final.
  • If you believe an error was made, you can request a review within 21 days by emailing Droppedcrossing.enquiries@bradford.gov.uk
  • Reviews are carried out by a Principal Engineer or Traffic and Enforcement Coordinator.
  • You will receive a decision within 20 working days.
  • If you are still unhappy, you can contact the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman:

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