Dropped kerbs
We have a protocol to make sure all dropped kerbs for vehicular property access are implemented as safely as possible.
If you would like to install or widen a dropped kerb at your property please 
download the dropped kerb application form [602.88KB] and return it to us using the address listed below.
Before you apply please be aware that:
- there is a £205.50 fee for the assessment and should be paid by cheque and included with the applications
- the administration fee is non refundable regardless of the outcome
- your application will be refused if you don't meet the conditions below
- there is no formal appeals process as all decisions are made within our agreed protocol
Speak with our planning section if:
- you live in a conservation area, there may be restrictions
- your property is on a classified road
- A roads - major roads intended to provide large scale transport links within or between areas.
- B roads - roads intended to connect different areas, and to feed traffic between A roads and smaller roads on the network.
- C roads - classified unnumbered - smaller roads intended to connect together unclassified roads with A and B roads, and often linking a housing estate or a village to the rest of the network.
- Unclassified - local roads intended for local traffic. 60% of roads in the UK fall within this category.
Your application will be refused if:
- the parking area is less than five metres deep
- you're extending an existing driveway over 6.3 metres
- the carriageway (road) is less then 5.5 metres adjacent to the proposed crossing
- your driveway is within 10 metres of a road junction
- your driveway is within 18 metres of a bus stop
- your driveway is less than one metre from street furniture
- there is a grass verge between your property and the highway
- there is an existing parking bay in front of the access
- there is less than two metres visibility either side
- water would drain onto the highway from your drive
Investigations will be needed or assessments carried out if there's:
- a canopy of trees over the proposed drop kerb
- manhole covers or iron works on the footprint of the proposed drop kerb
- a steep verge or footway as vehicles would be at risk of grounding, it should be no greater than one in six
- any right of access on the land you wish to park on or cross over
You will need to provide the following where appropriate:
- a detailed sketch with dimensions of your proposed driveway and dropped kerb
- if your property is rented, written permission from your private landlord, housing associations or The Gateshead Housing company where applicable
- evidence of planning permission if your property is on a classified (A, B or C) road
It can take up to 10 weeks for a decision. No work should start without our written permission.
Contact us
Network Management
Gateshead Council
Civic Centre
Regent Street
Gateshead
NE8 1HH
Phone: 0191 433 7000
Minicom: 0191 433 7554