Dropped kerbs

Local authorities were given the power of enforcing dropped kerbs under the Traffic Management Act 2004. The legislation allowed local authorities to enforce dropped footways without the need for any lines on the road surface or a sign to be in place.

There are 2 types of dropped footways:

The first is where the pavement has been lowered to the road level with raised bump marks to allow pedestrians to cross a road safely. These dropped footways make it easier for people with walking difficulties, visually impaired people, wheelchair users and power assisted vehicles.

The second is where the pavement has been lowered so it is level with the road to allow a resident’s motor vehicle to gain access to their drive from the road. Please see photographs below which show a vehicle being parked blocking a dropped kerb.

Reports of motor vehicles blocking dropped footways for the first type of dropped footway can be made by any member of the public.

If a dropped footway is being blocked by a motor vehicle for the second type of dropped footway it is only the resident of the property who is allowed to report the motor vehicle.

All reports of blocked dropped foot ways should be made by contacting the Customer Response Team on 0191 278 7799.

If a vehicle is parked on the road either fully or slightly adjacent to a  the dropped kerb, so it makes it difficult for pedestrians to use the dropped footway a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) will be issued by a Civil Enforcement Officer (CEO).

Raised Carriageway

Local authorities also have the power to enforce areas where the carriageway has been raised to meet the level of a footway/verge. Having the carriageway raised allows pedestrians to cross a road, without having to step down from the pavement. This is in place to assist people with disabilities and prams, etc.

Please see photographs below which show a parked vehicle blocking a raised carriage way

If a vehicle is parked blocking the raised carriageway, either fully or partially so it makes it difficult for pedestrians to use the crossing, a PCN will be issued by a CEO.