How long does a dropped kerb application take in Trafford?

Typically 6–12 weeks from application to completion of the crossover works. We recommend starting the application process as early as possible — before you finalise your driveway design — so there's no delay once you're ready to proceed.

Will I need planning permission for a new driveway in Altrincham?

If your driveway is permeable (resin bound, permeable block paving, gravel), you generally won't need planning permission under permitted development rules. Non-permeable surfaces over 5m² technically require permission unless water drains to a soakaway.

Can Dalys Driveways help with the dropped kerb application?

We can advise on the process and provide the information Trafford Council requires from a contractor's perspective, but the application itself must come from you as the property owner. We're happy to assist — just ask when we visit for your quote.

Driveway Crossovers & Traffic in Altrincham | Dalys Driveways

Planning a new driveway with access from the road in Altrincham? Here's what you need to know about dropped kerbs, crossovers, and Trafford Council requirements.

Do You Need a Dropped Kerb?

If your new driveway requires vehicle access from a public road, and there is currently a raised kerb at the boundary, you will need a dropped kerb (formally called a vehicle crossover) installed by the council or an approved contractor.

In Trafford, dropped kerb applications are made to Trafford Council Highways. Approval is needed before any driveway contractor can begin work on a new vehicular access point. The application typically takes 6–12 weeks to process.

Vehicle Crossover Application Process in Trafford

The process for getting a dropped kerb in Altrincham (and the rest of the Trafford borough) is:

1. Submit a vehicle crossover application to Trafford Council Highways 2. Council assesses the application — they check visibility, road safety, footway condition, and services (gas, water, cables under the footway) 3. If approved, the council will carry out the dropped kerb works (you pay the council for this, not your driveway contractor) 4. Once the dropped kerb is in place, your driveway contractor can begin

The cost of a dropped kerb from Trafford Council is typically £1,500–£3,000 depending on the kerb type, footway condition, and services present.

Can I Just Lower the Kerb Myself?

No — the public footway and kerb is public highway, and any work on it requires council approval and must be carried out by an approved contractor. Unauthorised works to the footway or kerb are illegal and the council can require reinstatement at your cost.

Your driveway contractor carries out work within your property boundary. The dropped kerb and footway crossing must be done by the council (or an approved Section 50 licensed contractor on the council's behalf).

Driveway Drainage and the Road

New driveways must not direct surface water onto the public highway. This is a legal requirement under the Highways Act. Your driveway must either:

- Be a permeable surface (resin bound, permeable block paving, gravel) that allows water to drain to the ground, or - Include drainage that directs water to a soakaway within your property

Water must not run across the footway or into road gullies not designed for that purpose. We design drainage into every driveway quote.