At BMD Groundworks, we are registered with Devon County Council and specialise in professional vehicle crossover and drop kerb construction across Devon and the South West. This guide explains everything you need to know — from planning permission to installation and long-term durability.

What Is a Drop Kerb?

A drop kerb (also known as a vehicle crossover) is a lowered section of pavement that allows vehicles to legally cross from the public highway onto private land, such as:

• Driveways

• Private parking areas

• Business forecourts

• Agricultural access points

• Commercial yards

Without an authorised dropped kerb, driving over the pavement is illegal and can result in enforcement action or fines.

Why You Need Council Approval in Devon

In Devon, all drop kerb installations must comply with regulations set by:

• Devon County Council

You cannot legally install or modify a drop kerb without formal approval from the local highways authority.

Because BMD is approved and registered with Devon County Council, we can:

• Guide you through the application process

• Ensure compliance with Devon highways specifications

• Construct the crossover to adoptable standards

• Coordinate inspections where required

This avoids delays, rejections, or costly rework.

The Drop Kerb Application Process in Devon

Here’s how the process typically works:

1️⃣ Site Assessment

We assess:

• Road classification (A, B, or residential road)

• Visibility splays

• Traffic flow

• Existing utilities

• Pavement width

• Drainage requirements

• Tree roots or protected features

2️⃣ Council Application

An application is submitted to Devon County Council. Approval depends on:

• Safety considerations

• Distance from junctions

• Gradient of driveway

• Impact on pedestrians

• Proximity to street furniture (lampposts, drains, signage)

3️⃣ Approval & Specification

Once approved, the council provides:

• Technical construction requirements

• Kerb types and depths

• Footway reinforcement standards

4️⃣ Installation by Approved Contractor

Only approved contractors (like BMD) can complete the works to highway standards.

How a Drop Kerb Is Installed

Professional installation involves more than simply lowering kerbstones.

Step-by-Step Construction:

✔ Removal of existing kerbs and footway
✔ Excavation to required highway depth
✔ Installation of reinforced sub-base
✔ Concrete bedding and haunching
✔ Installation of dropped kerbs and transition kerbs
✔ Footway strengthening to support vehicle loads
✔ Reinstatement of tarmac, concrete, or paving
✔ Site clean-up and safety compliance

For commercial premises, heavier-duty specifications are often required to handle vans, HGVs, or plant machinery.

Residential Drop Kerbs in Devon

We regularly install dropped kerbs for:

• New build driveways

• Driveway extensions

• Converting front gardens into parking

• EV charging access

• Shared access driveways

Important Considerations for Devon Homeowners

• Planning permission may be required if creating a new driveway.

• Permeable drainage may be needed under Sustainable Drainage (SuDS) rules.

• Properties on classified roads face stricter visibility requirements.

We can advise on all of this during your initial consultation.

Commercial Drop Kerbs & Business Access

Businesses across Devon rely on safe vehicle access. We install drop kerbs for:

• Retail units

• Industrial estates

• Agricultural yards

• Offices

• Care homes

• Schools

• Aviation facilities

For larger access points, reinforced carriageway crossings may be required.

As groundworks specialists, BMD ensures heavy-use crossovers are built to withstand long-term commercial traffic loads.

How Much Does a Drop Kerb Cost in Devon?

Costs vary depending on:

• Length of kerb required

• Road classification

• Traffic management needs

• Utility diversions

• Drainage alterations

• Footway construction type

Typical residential installations in Devon range from £1,500–£3,500+, but each project is site-specific.

We provide transparent quotations following council approval.

Why Choose BMD for Drop Kerb Installation in Devon?

BMD Groundworks offers:

✅ Devon County Council registration
✅ Full highways-compliant construction
✅ Residential and commercial expertise
✅ Drainage and groundworks capability
✅ Local knowledge of Devon planning requirements
✅ Work across Devon and the wider South West
✅ High-quality materials and guaranteed workmanship

We already deliver specialist construction services across the region, and our drop kerb installations meet the same professional standards.

Areas We Cover in Devon

We carry out drop kerb installations across:

• Exeter

• Plymouth

• Torbay

• Newton Abbot

• Barnstaple

• Tiverton

• Honiton

• Okehampton

• South Hams

• Mid Devon

(We also operate across Cornwall and the wider South West.)

If you’re searching for:

• “Drop kerb installation near me”

• “Devon County Council approved drop kerb contractor”

• “Vehicle crossover contractor Devon”

• “Commercial drop kerb installation Devon”

BMD can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a drop kerb myself?

No. In Devon, works must be completed by a council-approved contractor.

How long does approval take?

Typically 4–8 weeks depending on application complexity.

Do I need planning permission?

Sometimes — especially if altering the front boundary or creating new access.

What happens if I don’t get approval?

You could face enforcement action and be required to reinstate the pavement at your own expense.

Get a Drop Kerb Quote in Devon

If you’re planning a driveway, improving access, or upgrading commercial vehicle entry, contact BMD Groundworks today.

As a Devon County Council registered contractor, we ensure your drop kerb installation is safe, compliant, and built to last.