A dropped kerb is a roadside kerb or pavement that’s angled downwards towards the road to create a gentle slope. As well as driveway access, dropped kerbs are used at road junctions and pedestrian crossings to avoid the need for wheelchair and motorised scooter users, and people with buggies or shopping trollies, to drop off the full height kerb when crossing the road. They are also used by cyclists entering or leaving a cycle path.
Recently, the Parish Council has received reports of drivers blocking the dropped kerbs in the village by parking too close to road junctions and crossings in the village. This makes life very difficult for someone in a wheelchair or using a scooter in particular, as they may not be able to negotiate the full height kerb to cross the road. As a result, they may need to make a long detour to the next junction or crossing where a dropped kerb is accessible.
Parking across a dropped kerb isn’t just inconsiderate, it is also dangerous. Cars parked too close to road junctions and crossings can seriously obstruct visibility for pedestrians and other road users, leading to an increased risk of accidents. Furthermore, parking on a dropped kerb is illegal and could land you with a £70 Penalty Charge Notice (parking fine), in line with the latest Nottinghamshire County Council guidance.