Drop Kerbs and Loss of Public Parking Provision, Item under SO23(2)
In accordance with Standing Order 23(2) Councillor Brazil has requested that the Committee consider this matter.
Electoral Divisions: All in South Hams/Kingsbridge
Minutes:
The Committee noted that, in accordance with Standing Order 23, Councillor Brazil had asked that the Committee consider the above item, which could have implications across Devon, but with specific examples of difficulties experienced within his electoral division of Kingsbridge, with private householders constructing dropped kerbs to facilitate off-street parking and therefore reducing the availability of on-street parking spaces. There were also environmental impacts with the loss of gardens etc.
The Chief Officer for Highways, Infrastructure Development and Waste reported on the rules relating to the construction of dropped kerbs. Subject to construction by a qualified approved contractor the County Council had limited power to control the numbers, other than where there was an overriding safety impact.
Members also referred to the enforcement issues by the County Council’s Enforcement Officers (CEOs) and the Police and noted that on occasion construction of dropped kerbs and creation of several additional off-street parking places was beneficial. Where on-street parking caused an obstruction, which prevented egress by a resident action could be taken by the Police. Where a complaint was received the County Council’s Civil Enforcement Officers would consider attendance and could enforce where a parked vehicle obstructed a “dropped kerb” .