Dropped kerbs

Contractor Requirements

A dropped kerb will only be installed where it is safe to do so and where it does not interfere with the safety of the highway.

Works on the highway can only be undertaken by an insured accredited contractor. The contractor is required to obtain a permit to dig and it is necessary that we can ensure that the contractor has registered the necessary insurance.

Contractor must:

• Be registered with our network and traffic management register
• Hold public liability insurance for the sum of £5 million with no limit on the number of claims
• Provide appropriate insurance certificates (both applicant and Staffordshire County Council)
• Ensure employees are trained and accredited to the requirements of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
• Follow our vehicle access crossing specification
• Provide 20 days notice of proposed works

Permissions

All applications are recorded by the highway authority and approvals are valid for 3 years. Works can be carried out at any time during these 3 years. Contractors must apply for a permit to dig at the time of works so that we are aware of when the necessary works are to be carried out.

Removal of Access

Failure to comply with these requirements could result in the highway authority removing the access and reinstating the highway back to its original condition.

A notice will be sent to the landowner a minimum of seven days before any works take place. If there is no response, the highway authority will instruct works to commence and all costs can be recharged to the property.

General Construction Requirements

• Works must follow conditions approved by Staffordshire County Council
• Gradients should not exceed 1 in 12 for pedestrian safety
• Design should maximise level footway area for mobility-impaired pedestrians
• Inspection covers must be adjusted to finished levels and meet vehicle loading standards
• No work shall proceed without all necessary approvals
• Design changes must be agreed in advance with Staffordshire County Council
• Temporary signing must comply with Chapter 8 of the Road Traffic Signs Manual
• Consult Staffordshire County Council if existing footway construction differs from standard specification

Workmanship

• Excavation and reinstatement must follow Appendix 7/2 of the Staffordshire Highways Base Specification
• Excavation must reach required depth and be properly disposed of or recycled
• Utility apparatus must be identified and protected; trial trenches may be required
• Existing kerbs must be carefully removed
• Dropped kerbs must be laid as per Appendix 11/1 of the Staffordshire Highways Base Specification

Materials

All construction and materials must comply with Appendix 11/1 of the Staffordshire Highways Base Specification, including asphalt, sub-base, kerbs, edging and concrete.

Drainage Works

Drainage must follow Appendix 5/1 of the Staffordshire Highways Base Specification.

Note: Appendix 11/1 contains design guidance for various footpath types. The appropriate type must be confirmed before works begin. Commercial accesses require more robust construction.