Drivers who repeatedly cross pavements or verges to reach their properties without an authorised dropped kerb could have their access blocked under a new Hillingdon Council approach to protect its highways.
From November, bollards or barriers will be installed to protect council-owned public highway and pavements where property owners persistently ignore warnings.
Driving over a pavement or grass verge without an authorised vehicle crossover is illegal and can cause considerable damage to the surface and underground pipes and cables resulting in costly repairs.
Properly constructed crossovers, commonly known as dropped kerbs, strengthen the pavement so vehicles can cross it to access off-road parking.
Under the new process, property owners will receive an initial warning letter explaining the breach, the action needed and the consequences of failing to comply.
A final warning would follow if the issue remained unresolved, with a 21-day compliance period before bollards or barriers are installed under the Highways Act 1980 and, the Traffic Management Act 2004, to prevent further unauthorised vehicle crossovers and damage to the highway.
The aim is to encourage residents to proactively resolve these problems before physical measures become necessary.
Only the council is permitted to construct dropped kerbs in Hillingdon and residents cover all costs. They offer safe, off-road parking and could add value to your property.
Cllr Wayne Bridges, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Residents Services, said: “Hillingdon has more than 735 miles of pavements, and as the local highway authority, we have a duty to keep them safe and well maintained.
“Driving across a pavement without an authorised dropped kerb is not only illegal but can result in unnecessary maintenance at a cost to taxpayers, so we will use the legal powers available to us to take tougher action to protect our highways against those few who repeatedly ignore the rules.
“I encourage residents to take action promptly if they receive a warning.”
For more information about vehicle crossovers and dropped kerbs, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/dropped-kerbs.