04. Driveway/Hardstands

A driveway or hardstand is a designated area on a property intended for vehicle access, parking, or manoeuvring. It is typically constructed with durable materials such as concrete, asphalt, or paving stones and is located between the property boundary and the road or street. Driveways provide a pathway for vehicles to enter and exit the property safely and efficiently. Hardstands, similar to driveways, are flat surfaces designed to support the weight of vehicles and are often used for parking larger vehicles like cars, trucks, or recreational vehicles. Both driveways and hardstands contribute to the functionality, accessibility, and aesthetics of a property while facilitating convenient vehicle storage and movement. 

Permeable surfacing 

Permeable surfacing refers to materials used for driveways or hardstands that allow water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving, or porous asphalt. This feature is crucial for managing surface water runoff, as it helps prevent flooding and reduces the strain on local drainage systems. Permeable surfaces allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground naturally, replenishing groundwater supplies and reducing the risk of waterlogging or erosion. Additionally, they can help mitigate pollution by filtering contaminants from runoff before it enters waterways. 

Access via dropped kerb 

A dropped kerb, also known as a curb cut or lowered kerb, is a section of the kerb that has been lowered to enable vehicles to access driveways or hardstands directly from the road. This feature is important for ensuring safe and legal access to properties, as vehicles can enter and exit without causing obstruction to pedestrians or other road users. Dropped kerbs also help prevent damage to vehicles' undercarriages and tyres, reducing the risk of accidents or traffic congestion. 

Kerb dropped after construction 

The timing of when the kerb was dropped in relation to the property's construction is significant because it can affect the property's compliance with local regulations and planning permissions. Dropping the kerb after construction may require additional approvals or permits from local authorities, as it involves alterations to public infrastructure. Sellers should ensure that any modifications to the kerb were carried out with the appropriate permissions to avoid legal complications or enforcement actions.

Highways Consent form 

A Highways Consent form is a document obtained from the relevant highway authority granting permission for specific works or alterations affecting the public highway, such as dropping a kerb for driveway access. This form is essential for demonstrating compliance with local regulations and ensuring that the proposed changes meet safety and accessibility standards. Sellers can typically obtain a Highways Consent form by submitting an application to the local highway authority, providing details of the proposed works and any necessary supporting documentation.