Hillingdon Council Cabinet Member and Officer Decisions
New Domestic Vehicle Footway Crossover Policy
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Democratic Services
Location: Phase II
Ext: 0185
DDI: 01895 250185
CMD No: 477 (Re-issue)
To: COUNCILLOR IAN EDWARDS
LEADER OF THE COUNCIL
COUNCILLOR JONATHAN BIANCO
CABINET MEMBER FOR PROPERTY, HI GHWAYS
& TRANSPORT
c.c. All Members of the Public Safety and Transport
Select Committee
c.c. Poonam Pathak, Place Directorate
c.c. Perry Scott, Corporate Director of Place
Date: 27 June 2022
Non-Key Decision request Form D
NEW DOMESTIC VEHICLE FOOTWAY CROSSOVER POLICY
Dear Cabinet Member
Attached is a report requesting that a decision be made by you as an individual Cabinet
Member. Democratic Services confirm that this is not a key decision, as such the Local
Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England)
Regulations 2012 notice period does not apply.
You should take a decision on or after Tuesday 5 July 2022 in order to meet Constitutional
requirements about publication of decisions that are to be made. You may wish to discuss
the report with the Corporate Director before it is made. Please indicate your decision on the
duplicate memo supplied, and return it to me when you have made your decision. I will then
arrange for the formal notice of decision to be published.
Liz Penny
Democratic Services Officer
Title of Report: New Domestic Vehicle Footway Crossover Policy
Decision made:
Reasons for your decision: (e.g. as stated in report)
Alternatives considered and rejected: (e.g. as stated in report)
Signed ………………………………………………………Date……………………..
Leader of the Council / Cabinet Member for Property, Highways & Transport
Cabinet Member Report – 27 June 2022 Page 1
Part I - Public
NEW DOMESTIC VEHICLE FOOTWAY CROSSOVER POLICY
Cabinet Member(s) Councillor Ian Edwards
Councillor Jonathan Bianco
Cabinet Portfolio(s) Leader of the Council
Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport
Officer Contact(s) Poonam Pathak, Place Directorate
Papers with report Appendix A - Domestic Vehicle Footway Crossover Policy
HEADLINES
Summary
To seek Cabinet Member approval for the new Domestic Vehicle
Footway Crossover Policy following a review
Putting our
Residents First
This report supports the following Council objectives of: Our
People; Our Built Environment
Financial Cost No additional cost above existing approved budgets.
Relevant Select
Committee
Property, Highways and Transport
Relevant Ward(s) All
RECOMMENDATION
That the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport
approve the new domestic vehicle footway crossover policy document in Appendix A.
Reasons for recommendation
The introduction of the current crossover policy in 2019 has resulted in a better and more
consistent way of dealing with difficult applications, complaints, and appeals. However, to make
the application and administration of the policy by officers more effective and practical, a few
changes to address some recent challenges and complaints should be considered.
This revised policy will also allow more properties to qualify for a crossover, which will also support
the growing demand for residents looking to be able to consider electric vehicles and being able
to charge these on their own property.
Alternative options considered / risk management
None at this stage.
Cabinet Member Report – 27 June 2022 Page 2
Part I - Public
Select Committee comments
None at this stage.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Background
Residents who wish to drive across a footway or verge, which is part of the highway maintainable
at public expense, may apply to the Highway Authority for a vehicle crossover under the
provisions of section 184 of the Highways Act 1980. A vehicle crossover is where the kerbs are
dropped from their normal height to form a ramp and the footway or verge is strengthened to take
the weight of a private light goods vehicle.
Since the implementation of the current crossover policy on 1 July 2019, officers have r eceived
1479 applications (up to 1 July 2021) and 246 refusals, 93 appeals and complaints and 2 petitions.
These objections were resolved, and the Council's decision was supported by the Local
Government Ombudsman. The Council made an exception of only one, which was due to the
applicant's disability (amputee) and support from Social Care Direct. Officers believe the
proposed amendments take on board general feedback from residents and will provide additional
options for residents with the approval of crossover applications, especially in instances where
there is insufficient hardstanding depth, as well as parallel parking; additionally for grass verge
depths of between 3 to 4 metres, which is not compliant with the current policy.
The policy review and proposed changes incorporate the Council’s own internal
consultation, residents’ feedback, safety and other considerations, petition requests, together with
benchmarking with the London boroughs.
Applications for a vehicle crossover will be considered against the detailed criteria and minimum
standards to be met, as outlined in the new policy. Some of the key criteria changes are listed
below:
1. P OLICY CHANGES
1.1 Environmental Considerations (3.1)
The policy was developed to reduce the number of vehicles parked on the borough's roads and
allow more properties to qualify for a crossover, which will also support the growing demand for
residents looking to be able to consider electric vehicles and being able to charge these on their
own property.
1.2 Safety Consideration (3.4)
• Vehicle crossover applications on approaches to traffic signal junctions, zebra
crossings, pedestrian crossings, and school keep clears will be refused for safety
reasons. If the proposal is within 10 metres of the traffic signal junction or the respective
zigzag/marking the application will be refused. This will ensure the safety of the public
or user.
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Part I - Public
• In order to maintain the safety of the road users , the crossover applications for the
classified road would be refused if it is within 5m of a roundabout and an existing road
junction, measured from the nearest part of the crossover to the extended kerb line of
the joining road. The decision on residential roads will be made on a case -by-case
basis by a highways engineer, taking into account road safety considerations such as
(but not limited to) conflict with pedestrian crossing, impact on other road users, etc.
• Crossovers will not be permitted within 10m of a bus stop flag/bus stop cage or 20m in
case of a bus stop/bus stop cage serving two buses, to ensure accessibility and safety
of bus passengers.
• Bus stop relocation requests will be referred to Transport for London for their decision.
An application will not be progressed if TfL support is not granted.
Reason/Benefit
A crossover within formal and informal pedestrian crossings, near junctions and roundabouts
endanger pedestrian and road users’ safety. The bus stop cage should be considered to address
bus passenger accessibility and safety.
1.3 Other Considerations (3.5)
During planned maintenance works, requests for centralising/separating crossovers will only be
considered if there is no loss in on-street parking. Otherwise, this will only be considered as part
of an application for a crossover extension.
Reason/Benefit
This will reduce the loss of on-street parking while also ensuring a consistent approach to the
extension of vehicle crossover.
1.4 Forecourt Dimension (4.1)
• A standard bay length of 4.8m accommodates the vast majority of cars, but it has been
acknowledged that, in order to accommodate smaller cars, a short frontage policy has
been proposed.
• A new short frontage policy that will apply to existing development applications that
were constructed prior to this updated policy where the hardstanding/frontage depth is
minimum 3.8m (for parking at 90 degrees to the carriageway) for smaller cars.
Additional criteria for hardstanding less than 3.8m has also been proposed for where
there is a shared access between two properties and the applicant wishes to park their
vehicle using the shared crossover . This will necessitate meeting minimum
requirements (3.2m depth and 9m width). The requirement is based on a vehicle
entering and exiting the property in one manoeuvre to provide pedestrians with a safe
footway. Any vehicles that overhang and block any part of the pavement will be subject
to enforcement action.
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Part I - Public
Reason/Benefit
A London-wide consultation was carried out prior to finalising the short frontage requirement. The
short frontage option will provide flexibility in terms of hardstanding requirements and will benefit
properties where the forecourt dimension does not meet the existing criteria and allow more
properties to qualify for a crossover.
1.5 Width of Crossover (4.2)
• The maximum size of the crossover has been recommended to be increased from 4.2m
to 5m or 50% of the property's frontage width (whichever is greater) . This will assist
requests from residents to have a wider crossover width.
• The maximum size for two adjoining crossovers or shared access has been proposed
to increase from 2.7m to 5m. This will ensure that adequate access to these properties
is available.
Reason/Benefit
The increased size of the allowable crossover will provide additional crossover w idth for parking
more than one vehicle comfortably on the hardstanding. Similarly, the shared access and
adjoining crossover will improve the sufficiency of access to take the vehicle off road.
1.6 Alteration of Crossover (4.3)
The separation of two joined crossovers may be considered on a case- by-case basis and, if
approved, would reflect the same length of flat section being given. If anything, other than the
existing is requested, then it would require a formal application and be subjected to the policy
requirements.
Reason/Benefit
It will minimise unnecessary loss of on street parking and ensure fairness in decision- making
when extending an existing crossover.
1.7 Distance between Crossovers (4.3 – existing 2019 policy)
The requirement for the distance between the two crossovers, which was part of the existing 2019
policy, has been removed from the revised policy.
Reason/Benefit
It will assist in allowing wider crossovers for multiple vehicles in order to facilitate off-street parking
for the electric vehicle charging facility.
1.8 Existing Crossover (4.4 – existing 2019 policy)
The requirement in the existing 2019 policy to limit the crossover where the property benefits from
the existing crossover, e.g. back access to garage, has been removed from the revised policy.
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Part I - Public
Reason/Benefit
It will assist in allowing crossovers in order to facilitate off -street parking for the electric vehicle
charging facility.
1.9 Heavy Duty Crossover (4.5)
Applications received to serve a block of flats or commercial properties will be subject to the
construction of a Heavy-Duty Crossover and the width of the crossover access may be more than
the maximum permissible size, depending on site conditions and will be decided by the Council,
further consideration of 3.1 (planning permission). Evidence of tracking may be requested.
Reason/Benefit
It will assist in addressing road safety issues and will provide adequate access for multiple and
commercial vehicles.
1.10 Grass Verge (4.6.2)
• It is proposed to increase the grass verge width from 3m to 4m where crossover could
be approved. However, in critical drainage areas or areas at flood risk the applications
within these areas may be refused after consultation with flooding team.
Reason/Benefit
While implementing the existing vehicle crossover policy, officers identified that, where the grass
verge width up to 4m, the applicant could benefit from a crossover to take the car off the road.
This will benefit residents, especially where the grass verge measures 3m to 4m.
1.11 Parking Management Schemes (PMS) (4.8)
The criteria relating to net loss of parking provision in making decisions on any vehicle crossover
application in areas where parking management schemes exist has been removed.
Reason/Benefit
It will assist in allowing crossovers in order to facilitate off -street parking for the electric vehicle
charging facility.
1.12 Provision of second crossovers and ‘in and out’ drives (4.10)
If the property frontage abutting the highway is at least 12m wide and there is no loss of on street
parking ‘’ in and out’’ crossovers may be permitted.
Reason/Benefit
This will benefit residents, especially those with larger frontages.
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Part I - Public
1.13 Surfacing and drainage of hardstandings (4.11)
The applicant must comply with the guidance on the permeable surfacing of fort gardens.
Requirement of 25% of soft landscaping has been removed.
Reason/Benefit
This will benefit residents and is compliant to the government guidance.
1.14 Enforcement (7)
Enforcement of any breach of the policy has been added to the revised policy.
Reason/Benefit
This will assist in implementing a consistent approach in meeting policy requirements and
enforcing policy breaches.
1.15 Specification (8)
• During planned maintenance/reactive maintenance, the type of material to be used for
the construction of all crossovers will be decided by the Council (i.e., whether to replace
the crossover with a like-for-like material, or to use a different material).
Reason/Benefit
This will give officers more flexibility in deciding the type of material to use when constructing the
crossover based on the site conditions. For example, for crossovers near trees, bitmac can be
beneficial due to the material's flexibility, whereas concrete cracks due to tree roots.
2. PETITIONS RECEIVED
While conducting the policy review, the Council received two petitions from residents with
requests regarding changes to the policy. Officers have carefully considered these and, whilst
some of the petitioners’ requests highlighted would be addressed by approving the proposed
policy changes, it should be noted that others would not be addressed for the reasons set out
below.
The details of two petitions submitted to the Council requesting a review of the existing vehicle
crossover policy are as follows:
• Petition 1 (210525) - Dropped Kerb Policy - Short Frontage Agreements (101 signatures). In
an accompanying statement, the residents provided the following additional information.
We, the undersigned, are requesting the Council consider introducing short frontage
agreements in Hillingdon's vehicular crossover policy. Short frontage agreements should be
considered in an area where only a small number of properties with short frontages do not
have a dropped kerb, for consistency and fairness.
The main reasons to consider short frontage agreements in Hillingdon are the following:
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Part I - Public
• Allow residents to have access to home charging facilities for electric vehicles.
• To provide consistency and fair treatment to residents who live in an area where the
majority of properties already have an approved dropped kerb, independently of the
size of their forecourt.
Recommendation
The forecourt dimension was reviewed, and a short front age policy was incorporated where the
hardstanding/frontage depth was less than 4.8m; an absolute minimum of 3.8m (for parking at 90
degrees to the carriageway) has been proposed providing the vehicle does not overhang the
pavement. Additional criteria have also been introduced where the hardstanding/frontage depth
is less than 3.8m. This will necessitate meeting additional minimum requirements (3.2m depth
and 9m width). The requirement is based on a vehicle entering and exiting the property in one
manoeuvre to provide pedestrians with a safe footway. Any vehicles that overhang and block any
part of the pavement will be subject to enforcement action.
Reason/Benefit
The proposed criteria will benefit properties where the forecourt dimension does not meet the
existing criteria and will make EV charging facilities more accessible.
• Petition 2 - modify the 2019 Domestic Vehicle Footway Crossover Policy into an edited 2021
Policy (22 Signatures). The suggested changes are below:
1. In 4.2a) please change "4.2m" to "4.88m".
2. Please delete all of 4.2b) concerning householders building unwanted walls, fences or
planters.
3. 5 ILLEGAL CROSSING OF FOOTWAYS: please will you kindly delete the second
paragraph re expensive, dangerous and ugly bollards.
4. 10 CHARGES AND PAYMENTS - The third sentence in the 2015 policy read: "If the
application is approved and you proceed with the construction I extension then the
site/administration fee will be deducted from the total cost of the quotation." Please
reintroduce this.
Recommendations
1. The maximum size of the crossover has been recommended to be increased from 4.2m
to 5m, or 50% of the property's frontage width (whichever is greater.
2. Other requests were reviewed and, for the reasons stated below, were not considered
for deletion as requested by petitioners.
Reason/Benefit
1. The proposed changes to increase the maximum size of a crossover vehicle will allow
for more vehicles in the front garden.
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Part I - Public
2. A wall, fence, or other permanent measures are required to prevent unauthorised
crossing on unstrengthened footways. This would ensure pedestrian safety while also
avoiding the need for Council funds to be spent on damage caused by illegal crossings.
A num ber of London councils have adopted this criterion and officers have not
recommended that it be removed.
3. Hillingdon experiences a high number of cases where residents drive over the
footway/verge to gain access to their property without a properly constructed vehicle
crossover. This causes damage to the footway/verge and potential damage to utility
apparatus below the surface. This in turn results in unnecessary public expense to effect
repairs in addition to exposing the Council to a higher risk of claims for personal injury.
Officers have not proposed any changes to the current policy in this regard since driving
on the footway is a breach of sections 184 of the Highways Act and section 16 of the
London Local Authority and Transportation Act. The bollards are used as a last resort
to take enforcement action against residents who drive on the footway on a regular
basis. This will reduce the number of third-party claims against the Council arising from
footway defects due to illegal crossings and unnecessary public expense to effect
repairs.
4. The non- refundable application fees have not been recommended to change as
requested. This fee covers the time spent by officers in processing applications and site
visits to access the application. The fees and charges are reviewed, and bench marked
with the neighbouring borough.
Following consideration of all the feedback received and other considerations, an updated policy
is proposed as set out in Appendix A.
Financial Implications
Whilst there are no direct financial implications associated with the proposed policy changes, the
volume of applications received – and the number of crossovers subsequently approved and
constructed – will be closely monitored following implementation given the potential impact on the
level of application and supervision fee income generated.
RESIDENT BENEFIT & CONSULTATION
The benefit or impact upon Hillingdon residents, service users and communities
Adopting and complying with the new crossover policy will provide a range of benefits to Hillingdon
residents, including:
• Delivery of a more informative and effective crossover application and approval process.
• Provision of clear and concise application criteria in the new policy should ensure
consistent judgement is applied by Council officers that should lead to fewer formal
complaints being received.
• Additional vehicle crossover criteria options for residents.
Consultation carried out or required
The new Policy has taken into account feedback from residents and requests in petitions. It has
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Part I - Public
also been prepared with input from the Council’s ASBET, Green Spaces, Development Control,
Flooding, Transport and Project Parking, Planning team and London Wide Vehicle Crossover
policies.
CORPORATE CONSIDERATIONS
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance has reviewed the report and notes that the new policy will be funded within
existing resources. Corporate Finance notes the link to the Strategic Climate Action Plan adopted
July 2021, Strategic objective C8 of sustainable transportation.
Legal Implications
The Council as the Highway Authority has a duty under section 184 of the Highways Act 1980 to
ensure, so far as practicable, safe entry to and exit from premises:
• To allow the passage of traffic on the highway network.
• To facilitate safe passage for vehicular traffic on the highway network.
• To maintain safe passage for pedestrian and cyclists by ensuring vehicles do not overhang
the pavement.
In considering an application for construction of a vehicle crossover, the Council may approve the
request with or without modification, may propose alternative works or reject the request; and in
determining how to exercise their powers in this respect, the Council shall have regard to the
matters set out above.
The Borough Solicitor confirms that if the proposed amendments to the Council's Vehicle
Crossover Policy are agreed the updated policy will comply with both the Highways Act 1980 and
relevant provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998.
BACKGROUND PAPERS
Vehicle Crossover Policy 2019.
1
London Borough of Hillingdon
DOMESTIC VEHICLE FOOTWAY CROSSOVER POLICY
HIGHWAY SERVICES
27th June 2022
2
Quality Management
Report: DOMESTIC VEHICLE FOOTWAY CROSSOVER POLICY
Issue/revision Issue 1 Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3
Version/Remarks 1.0 2.0 3.0
Date 05/04/2019 03.09.2021 11.04.2022
Prepared by Poonam Pathak Poonam Pathak Isaac Kwakye
Signature 23.06.2022
Checked by Dalton Cenac Poonam Pathak
Signature 27.06.2022
Authorised by Perry Scott Perry Scott Perry Scott
Signature 27.06.2022
Approved by
Signature
The following departments/authorities have been consulted in the preparation
of this policy.
• ASBIT
• Green Spaces
• Development Control
• Parking
• Planning (Flood & Water Management)
• London Local Authorities
27
th June 2022
3
Table of Contents
1. POLICY STATEMENT ................................................................................................................. 5
2. BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................ 5
3. THE POLICY ................................................................................................................................. 6
3.1 Legal Considerations ........................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Financial Considerations ..................................................................................................... 7
3.3 Environmental Considerations ........................................................................................... 7
3.4 Safety Considerations ......................................................................................................... 7
3.5 Other Considerations ........................................................................................................... 8
4. GUIDANCE .................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1 Forecourt dimensions .......................................................................................................... 9
4.2 Width of crossover ............................................................................................................. 11
4.2.1 Crossover Extensions ................................................................................................ 12
4.2.2 Shared Crossover/Shared Access .......................................................................... 12
4.3 Alteration of Crossover ...................................................................................................... 13
4.4 Redundant crossovers ....................................................................................................... 13
4.5 Heavy Duty Crossover ....................................................................................................... 13
4.6 Highway trees, verges and amenity areas ..................................................................... 13
4.6.1 Highway trees ............................................................................................................. 13
4.6.2 Grass verge ................................................................................................................. 15
4.7 Visibility ................................................................................................................................ 15
4.7.1 Pedestrian visibility ..................................................................................................... 15
4.7.2 Carriageway visibility ................................................................................................. 16
4.8 Parking Management Schemes (PMS) .......................................................................... 16
4.9 Street furniture and traffic calming ................................................................................... 17
4.10 Provision of second crossovers and ‘in and out’ drives ............................................... 17
4.11 Surfacing and drainage of hardstanding ......................................................................... 17
4.12 Impact on neighbouring properties and parking ............................................................ 18
5. ILLEGAL CROSSING OF FOOTWAYS .................................................................................. 18
6. OBSTRUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 18
7. ENFORCEMENT ........................................................................................................................ 19
8. INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 19
9. SPECIFICATION AND USE OF CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS ...................................... 19
10. WHITE BAR MARKINGS .......................................................................................................... 20
11. CHARGES AND PAYMENTS .................................................................................................. 20
4
12. RIGHT OF APPEAL ................................................................................................................... 20
Appendix 1 - Classified Road List .................................................................................................... 22
Appendix 2 - Conservation Areas .................................................................................................... 25
Appendix 4 - Tree Report Template ................................................................................................ 56
Appendix 5 - Dropped kerb measurement form ............................................................................ 57
5
1. POLICY STATEMENT
This policy sets out the framework in relation to requests made for front garden,
open plan parking. The Council supports reducing the number of vehicles parked on
the borough's roads and assisting domestic property owners to park on their own
property. This revised policy will allow more properties to qualify for a crossover,
which will also support the growing demand for residents looking to be able to
consider electric vehicles and being able to charge these on their own property.
The construction of a vehicle crossover does not give the occupier of the premises
any particular rights, except to drive across the footway or verge to gain access to
the highway with a private light goods motor vehicle; the crossover itself is part of the
public highway. The Authority being the London Borough of Hillingdon does not
guarantee that a crossover will be suitable for use with any particular vehicle (for
example a vehicle with low ground clearance).
The Authority reserves the right to impose reasonable conditions on the use of any
crossover, as provided for in section 184 of the Highways Act 1980 as well as
reserves the right to review its policies, working practices and charges from time to
time to ensure the continued provision of an efficient and cost-effective service. Each
application site will be assessed individually and on its own merits against current
standards and policy.
Inevitably the adoption of this new policy will result in some future applications being
refused, which under previous policies may have been successful. This will seem
inequitable to some unsuccessful applicants, especially when other similar type
properties in the immediate vicinity have crossovers. However, no previous policy or
policies will take precedent to the current policy.
2. BACKGROUND
A domestic crossover is a term used to describe an access from the road, across the
pavement (footpath), and into a residential property, typically a driveway. Legal
crossovers typically include lowering the kerb height and strengthening the footway
to prevent future damage from vehicles passing over. A domestic crossover is
suitable for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes and serving residential properties.
Vehicle use in excess of this necessitates the use of a commercial crossover.
Residents who wish to drive across a footway or verge, which is part of the highway
maintainable at public expense, may apply to the Highway Authority for a vehicle
crossover under the provisions of section 184 of the Highways Act 1980.
Residents may request the Highway Authority to construct a crossover and the
Highway Authority may approve the request with or without modifications, may
propose alternative works, or may reject the request. In determining how to use its
powers the Highway Authority shall have primary regard to:
a) the need to ensure as far as reasonably practicable, safe entry and exit from
premises
b) the need to facilitate as far as reasonably practicable, the safe passage of
vehicular traffic on the highway
c) the need to maintain safe pedestrian passage
d) the need to prevent damage to the footway or verge
6
If the Highway Authority agrees to the provision of a crossover, it will provide the
occupier with an estimate for the costs of the works, and once this amount has been
paid in full, the crossing will be constructed, subject to no outstanding requirements.
The London Borough of Hillingdon is the Highway Authority for all roads in the
borough, with the exception of A40, A312, A30 (red routes) which is under the
authority of Transport for London.
3. THE POLICY
3.1 Legal Considerations
Under the Highways Act 1980 it is not allowed to drive over a footway or verge
unless a vehicle crossing has been authorised and installed. Doing so may damage
the footway and/or any pipes or cables that are buried underneath it.
Planning permission is not usually required to construct a crossover, but you will
need to apply separately if:
• The property’s vehicle access would lead directly onto a Classified Road
(A, B or C road)
• The property is a Listed Building
• The property is other than a single-family dwelling, e.g., Flat, Maisonette,
Commercial or Industrial Premises.
• The works for a vehicle crossover include the demolition of a front wall
which is more than 1 metre in height.
• The property is a house in multiple occupation.
• The property is within a new development.
• The parking area within the site measures more than 5 sqm and does not
meet the Government’s minimum requirements for drainage (see 4.11
Surfacing and drainage of hardstandings)
Where planning permission is required, a copy of every page of the planning consent
must be supplied with the application.
If the property is a Listed Building or in a Conservation Area, it is recommended that
advice on the acceptability of a new opening, or its design, be sought from the
Conservation Team. Also, any new openings in the front boundary of a listed
building, may require listed building consent.
It should be noted that any amendments to parking will be considered in conjunction
with:
• The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984
• The Local Authorities' Traffic Orders (Procedure)(England and Wales)
Regulations 1996
• The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.
7
Please note that approval for the construction of the crossover must be granted by
Hillingdon Highways even if planning approval has been granted by Planning, or by
appeal through the Planning Inspectorate.
3.2 Financial Considerations
In accordance with the Highways Act 1980, all reasonable costs incurred by the
Council can be recovered from the applicant. Charges for application and
administration are reviewed annually and the cost of construction is dependent on
the works required. Where on inspection it is evident that damage to the footway or
verge has been caused through unauthorised crossing by vehicles, any associated
works of repair will be included in the cost of works quoted.
3.3 Environmental Considerations
• Crossover near trees will be assessed and decided upon by the council's tree
officers, who will determine whether or not street trees can be removed to
facilitate crossover (see section 4.6.1)
• Crossovers will not be approved where they necessitate replacement of grass
with concrete in wide grass verges (greater than 4m) or highway amenity areas
(see section 4.6.2).
• The policy has been developed to address the council's commitment to climate
change and facilitates access to properties and the charging of electric vehicle in
residents' own properties/forecourts.
3.4 Safety Considerations
• To maintain the appearance of the property and to maintain pedestrian safety it
would be preferable where possible to keep vehicle and pedestrian accesses
separate. Where the approved crossover extends across the front door, the depth
of the frontage should be adequate enough to prevent the vehicle from
obstructing the pedestrian access between the public footway and the front door.
• Any gate/s at vehicle entrances to a property must open inwards.
• The applicant must ensure that adequate sight lines are maintained to allow safe
access to their property.
• The crossover must not be within 5m of a roundabout and an existing road
junction, measured from the nearest part of the crossover to the extended kerb
line of the joining road. This would be applied to all classified roads. The decision
on residential roads will be made on a case-by-case basis by a highways engineer
taking into account, road safety considerations such as (but not limited to) conflict
with pedestrian crossing, impact on other road users, etc.
• The crossover should not be within 10m of the approach to traffic signal junctions
and pedestrian crossings/zebra crossings or School Keep Clear line markings
• New crossovers are not permitted within 10 metres of a bus stop flag (where there
is no cage) or within bus stop cage markings to ensure that accessibility and
safety for bus passengers are not affected. Where a bus stop is used by more
than one bus service this distance may be extended to 20m to facilitate 2 buses
arriving at the stop at the same time as appropriate.
8
• Any request for the relocation of the bus stop and/or markings would be referred
to Transport for London (TfL) who are responsible for all bus stops and related
matters, for their decision.
• A crossover application will be refused if the resulting gradient across the footpath
would be dangerous for pedestrians.
3.5 Other Considerations
• If the applicant is a tenant of a council, housing association or leasehold property,
the written permission of the relevant landlord must be obtained and submitted
with the application form.
• The applicant must check the deeds to confirm that there is no restriction on
parking a vehicle within the boundaries of the property (often applies to New
Build properties).
• Should it be the intention to provide a loose gravel driveway on the property, a
mechanism must be put in place to ensure the gravel is retained and is not able
to spread across the highway.
• Vehicle crossovers will normally not be constructed with a down slope towards
the property. Should this be necessary due to local ground levels, it may be
required to include a system of drainage to prevent highway water entering the
private property.
• The Council has no obligation to meet the property threshold level at the back of
the footway. Minor accommodation works may be undertaken within the private
area with the agreement of the property owner.
• The highway level may change in future for any reason. The applicant may have
to adjust ground levels within the property boundary to match the new footway
level unless otherwise agreed.
• If a utility company box or telegraph pole is situated within the area of the
proposed crossover, including the tapers on either side, it will be referred to the
utility company in question for inspection. They will state whether it will be
necessary to lower or relocate this apparatus, and the additional cost of such
works will be borne by the applicant.
• A high degree of road camber or a considerably inclined vehicle crossover can
create grounding issues for either or both the front and rear overhang of a
vehicle. Local ground levels and gradients may put limitations on the type of
vehicle that can use a given crossover installation. It should be noted that a
crossover installation would not necessarily accommodate all vehicle types.
• A vehicle crossover is installed to allow access from private property to the
highway. It is not permitted to park on the vehicle crossover. Unauthorised
parking may be enforced under parking legislation.
• The separation of two joined crossovers (generally requested during planned
maintenance works) may be considered on a case-by-case basis and if
approved, would reflect the same length of flat section being given. If anything,
other than the existing is requested (for example request for a wider crossover),
then it would require a formal application and subjected to the policy
requirements
9
4. GUIDANCE
4.1 Forecourt dimensions
Minimum dimensions apply to a vehicle parking area in order that a vehicle is able to
be parked safely off the public highway without overhanging any part of it, allow
sufficient space for occupants to get in, out and around the vehicle and so as not to
obstruct access to the doors of the property.
Accordingly, a vehicle hardstanding should be at least 4.8 metres deep and set out
at 90 degrees to the carriageway (see Fig 1).
0.6m 2.4m - 5m 0.6m
Fig 1- Typical Layout
New Short Frontage Policy
1. Amendments to our previous crossover policy, we have now introduced a short
frontage policy, which will enable more residents to have crossovers installed.
(see Fig 2).
a. The frontage is an absolute minimum of 3.8 metres deep, (for parking at
90 degrees to the carriageway)
b. The vehicle does not overhang onto the highway. (Any vehicles that
overhang onto the highway and block any part of the pavement will be
subject to enforcement action, as stated in section 6 of this policy).
Standard
4.8m
Path
Footway
House
10
0.6m 2.4m - 5m 0.6m
Fig 2 – Short Front Typical Layout
2. If there is shared access between the properties and the applicant wishes to park
their vehicle using the shared crossover but does not meet the above depth
criteria, the application for a crossover may be approved only if the following
criteria are met.
a. The frontage must be at least 3.2m deep and 9m wide (Please refer to Fig
3 below)
b. Agreement on the shared crossover with the neighbour as applicable
c. The vehicle does not overhang onto the highway (Any vehicles that
overhang and block any part of the pavement will be subject to
enforcement action, as stated in section 6 of this policy).
min 3.8m
Path
Footway
House
11
Fig 3- Shared Crossover Layout
On Classified Roads, vehicles must be able to enter and exit in a forward gear (i.e.,
the property must have space to turn the vehicle around).
4.2 Width of crossover
A single width crossover must be a minimum of 2.4 metres wide at the back of the
footway. Narrower crossovers are difficult to use, and the resultant manoeuvring can
disrupt the flow of traffic on the adjoining highway.
Where a property has an existing hardstanding that is significantly wider than the
width of the crossover applied for (e.g., a 2.4m crossover serving a hardstanding
capable of accommodating two or more:
a) The crossover width may be widened to match the width of the hardstanding
up to a maximum width of 5m or 50% of the width of the frontage of the
property (whichever is greater).
b) The applicant must erect a low (up to 0.6m) wall, fence, or permanent
landscaping to physically prevent vehicles crossing over an area of footway
that has not been strengthened. A wall, fence, or other permanent measures
are required to prevent unauthorised crossing on unstrengthen footways. This
would ensure pedestrian safety while also avoiding the need for council funds
to be spent on damage caused by illegal crossings.
12
2.4m to 5.0m
0.6m taper 0.6m
Fig: 4 - Width of crossover
4.2.1 Crossover Extensions
Where applicants require extensions to existing crossovers, the total width must not
exceed 5m flat section. The width of the crossover will be measured by the length of
kerb flush with the road and will not include “tapers". It is not Council’s policy to
reconstruct the entire crossover unless it is structurally unsound. In such
circumstances, the applicant will be offered the option of reconstructing the entire
crossover at their expense if they so wish.
4.2.2 Shared Crossover/Shared Access
Subject to 4.3 below, where applicants are applying for two adjoining crossovers
(e.g., for 2 adjoining properties), or where a new crossover will join an existing one
(e.g., a neighbour’s crossover), a maximum of 5m flat section will be allowed for
each new crossover (refer to Fig 5). This requirement will also apply where the
occupiers of two adjoining properties share a driveway and wish to build a double
width crossing to serve the two sites or if one owner only requires an extension.
Property boundary
2.4m to 5m 2.4 to 5m
0.6m 0.6m
Fig 5 -Two adjoining crossovers
Middle of existing shared crossover
2.4 to 5m 2.4 to 5m
Existing shared access
Fig: 6 - Size of crossover
13
4.3 Alteration of Crossover
Where applicants require extensions to a shared crossover or shared access, the
provision of a separate crossover would be considered where any of the following
prevails.
1. Where the extension may result in blocking the front door
2. Where there is an existing side wall, hedge or fence that forms the boundary
between each house
3. Where a lamp column or other street furniture relocation required for the
extension and cannot be achieved
4.4 Redundant crossovers
When an existing crossover is redundant (for example because a hardstanding
has been replaced with soft landscaping or a boundary wall has been
constructed) and the Authority is undertaking routine maintenance, or it
otherwise appears expedient for the Authority to do so, the Authority will remove
the crossover and reinstate the kerb and footway.
4.5 Heavy Duty Crossover
Applications received to serve a block of flats or commercial properties will be
subject to the construction of a Heavy-Duty Crossover and the width of the crossover
access may be more than the maximum permissible size, depending on site
conditions and will be decided by the Council and further consideration of 3.1
(planning permission). Evidence of tracking may be requested.
4.6 Highway trees, verges and amenity areas
Any existing Highway amenity such as a tree or street furniture requiring a
specialist officer's visit may attract an additional fee.
4.6.1 Highway trees
A crossover may be refused if excavation will disturb the root protection zone of
any trees located on the highway, this zone is calculated by measuring the
circumference of the tree at chest height (1.5m) and multiplying by a factor of
four (as defined in the National Joint Utilities Guidelines) Fig 7.
14
X
X = 4 x circumference of the tree measured 1.5m above the footway level to
taper of the crossover
Fig 7: Precautionary Zone
Other factors that are taken into account include:
• The species of tree and its particular needs and habit,
• The current health and vigour of the highway tree,
• The likely future growth and spatial needs of the tree,
• The predicted future root spread of the tree,
• The likely effects on the tree if the dropped kerb were to go ahead.
Where a proposed crossover is within the precautionary zone of a tree or would
negatively impact any of the other factors that are listed, we will advise the
applicant to determine if the preferred location of the crossover can be moved to
avoid the tree. If there is no alternative location, the Council’s Tree Officer will be
asked to provide a comment/report on the condition of the tree to assess its
health and amenity value. The cost of Tree Officer's site visit and preparing a
tree report will be charged to the applicant.
Should the proposed Vehicle Crossover fall into the precautionary area it may be
necessary for a trial excavation to be carried out to establish the feasibility of
installing the Crossover without undue root disturbance. The cost of this will be
borne by the applicant. Should it subsequently transpire that the root
measurement more than 25mm, the crossover will be refused.
Certain species of tree are relatively hardy and can withstand a certain amount
of root severance and still survive, although not necessarily flourish. Other
species of tree are more sensitive to root damage, and it is often the case that
symptoms of crown dieback and general loss of vigour only show themselves
12-18 months after roots and branches have been severed and disrupted.
If the Council's tree officer agrees that a tree may be removed to accommodate
a new crossover, the applicant shall pay for the removal of the existing tree and
replacement elsewhere with a new highway tree. Furthermore, any trees planted
within the last two years may be relocated at the applicant's expense.
15
4.6.2 Grass verge
The Authority will endeavour to sustain grass verges and amenity areas
maintained by the highway authority as an important and integral part of the
Borough's street scene and environment wherever possible.
The Authority reserves the right to reject on amenity grounds an application for a
crossing across a verge or amenity area. Grass verges play a critical role in
allowing water to infiltrate into the ground. In critical drainage areas or areas at
flood risk the applications within these areas may be refused after consultation
with flooding team.
The application may be permitted where the highway grass verge or any
highway amenity area is less than 4m (from the carriageway kerb line to the
property threshold).
4.7 Visibility
4.7.1 Pedestrian visibility
Where it is in the applicant’s control, the minimum requirements stated below
should be satisfied. Where all or part of the splay lies across land outside of the
applicant’s control, a relaxation to this requirement may be con
View Decision / Minutes Text
Executive Decision Notice – 29 July 2022 Page 1 This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk OFFICIAL EXECUTIVE DECISION NOTICE PUBLISHED BY DEMOCRATIC SERVICES Notice is hereby given that the following decision(s) have been made today by Cabinet Members at the London Borough of Hillingdon: Title of decision New Domestic Vehicle Footway Crossover Policy Reference No. 477 Date of decision Friday 29 July 2022 Call-in expiry date 5pm, Friday 5 August 2022 Relevant Select Committee Property, Highways and Transport Select Committee Relevant Ward All Decision made Cabinet Members making the decision Councillor Ian Edwards - Leader of the Council Councillor Jonathan Bianco – Cabinet Member for Pro perty, Highways and Transport Approved That the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport approve d the new domestic vehicle footway crossover policy document set out in Appendix A of the report. Reason for decision The introduction of the current crossover policy in 2019 has resulted in a better and more consistent way of dealing with difficult applications, complaints, and appeals. However, to make the application and administration of the policy by officers more effective and practical, a few changes to address some recent challenges and complaints should be considered. This revised policy will also allow more properties to qualify for a crossover, which will also support the growing demand for residents looking to be able to consider electric vehicles and being able to charge these on their own property. Alternative options considered and rejected None at this stage. Classification Part 1 – Public Executive Decision Notice – 29 July 2022 Page 2 This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk Link to associated report Report Relevant Officer contact & Directorate Poonam Pathak – Place Directorate Any interest declared by the Cabinet Member(s) / dispensation granted N/A Implementation of decision & scrutiny call-in [Internal Use only] When can this decision be implemented by officers? Officers can implement Cabinet Member decision in this notice only from the expiry of the scrutiny call-in period which is: 5pm, Monday 5 August 2022 However, this is subject to the decision not being called in by Councillors on the relevant Select Committee. Upon receipt of a valid call-in request, Democratic Services will immediately advise the relevant officer(s) and the decision must then be put on hold. Councillor scrutiny call-in of this decision Councillors on the relevant Select Committee shown in this notice may request to call-in this decision. The request must be before the expiry of the scrutiny call-in period above. Councillors should use the Scrutiny Call-in App (link below) on their devices to initiate any call-in request. Further advice can be sought from Democratic Services if required: Scrutiny Call-In - Power Apps (secure) Further information These decisions, where applicable, have been taken under The Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012. This is the formal notice by the Council of the above executive decision, including links to the reports where applicable. If you would like more information on this decision, please contact Democratic Services on 01895 250636 or email: democratic@hillingdon.gov.uk. Circulation of this decision notice is to a variety of people including Members of the Council, Corporate Directors, Officers, Group Secretariats and the Public. Copies are also placed on the Council’s website. Democratic Services London Borough of Hillingdon Executive Decision Notice – 29 July 2022 Page 3 This notice is a public document also available to view on the Council's website www.hillingdon.gov.uk Civic Centre High Street Uxbridge UB8 1UW