Why Construct A Pavement Crossing?
There are two main reasons for building a pavement crossing. Firstly, pavements are designed and constructed for pedestrian use, persistent driving over or parking on a pavement may cause hazardous potholes or may damage underground cables and pipes which can be dangerous and costly to repair. Secondly, it is an offence to drive a vehicle over a pavement or verge which is not part of a properly constructed pavement crossing and the Council has powers under the Highways Act 1980 to serve a Notice on offenders and recover all reasonable costs.
Applying For A Pavement Crossing/Hardstanding
To apply for a pavement crossing (ramp over public footpath) and hardstanding (driveway) you need to write a letter to the Housing Department stating that you would like to apply for a pavement crossing or hardstanding or both (please see below if you need to apply for planning permission first). In the letter you must include your contact telephone number in order for us to liaise with you. The process can be lengthy; however, we will maintain contact with you throughout the process.
The budget for each request is £1,500.00, if the quote for the work is higher then we will give you the option of paying the difference before the work will commence, if you do not wish to do this, the work request will be cancelled.
The cost for the pavement crossing is £1.70 per week, the cost for a hardstanding is £1.70 per week or should you require both the cost is £3.40 per week. These charges are added onto your weekly rent and will be a permanent charge. Please note the charges are not covered by Housing Benefits. The charge is subject to change at the beginning of each new financial year.
Planning Permission
If you live on a Class 1, Class 2 or a Class 3 road, you will have to apply and pay for planning permission before you contact us with your request. The Council areas that come in this category are:-
Class 1
Summerhouse
Piercebridge
West Auckland Road
Class 2
Carmel Road North
Haughton Green
Haughton Road
Class 3
Eastmount Road
Geneva Road
Hundens Lane
Longfield Road
McMullen Road
Newton Lane
Salters Lane South
Thompson Street West
Whessoe Road
Yarm Road
Neasham Road, Middleton St George
Norton Road, Sadberge
Church Row, Hurworth
Church View, Bishopton
The Green, High Coniscliffe
You can contact the Planning Department on 01325 388799 or email them at planning.enquiries@darlington.gov.uk
Installing Your Own Pavement Crossing
If you wish to install your own pavement crossing you would need to contact Highways first and pay for a 1A4, await permission from them before any work can commence. Please note the builder/contractor must have £5,000,000 indemnity insurance or they will not be able to carry out the work.
If you are an owner occupier you can also apply for a pavement crossing and/or hardstanding by contacting the Highways Department on 01325 388741.