Unauthorized tree felling for construction of unlawful dropped curbs spotted in Birmingham

In the heart of Birmingham, Councillor Majid Mahmood, the Cabinet Member for Environment, has identified the unauthorised installation of dropped kerbs and the illegal felling of trees as a significant concern. These unlawful actions contribute to environmental harm and increased road congestion, undermining city planning and disrupting the natural landscape.

The installation of dropped kerbs without permits on classified roads (A, B, or C roads), in conservation areas, or on listed buildings requires planning permission. This is a legal requirement when creating new off-street parking, such as a driveway. However, the illegal dropped kerbs are often poorly constructed and in unsuitable locations, causing additional hazards such as road ponding and illegal double parking.

The unlawful felling of trees by residents in Birmingham to create room for new driveways has also been noted. These actions not only damage the city's greenery but also fall under the Criminal Damage Act 1971, which could lead to significant penalties. Similarly, the installation of dropped kerbs without permits is a breach of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, carrying similar consequences.

Councillor Mahmood has requested support from West Midlands Police to enforce these existing laws. He has written to West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, urging a "tough stance" on the matter. Moreover, he has called for a coordinated approach with West Midlands Police to curb the spread of illegal developments.

In a bid to address this issue, Councillor Mahmood has also penned a letter to West Midlands Police, highlighting the need for a more proactive approach to tackle the rise in unapproved dropped kerbs. However, no details about the planned resolution to the matter have been provided as of yet.

It is worth noting that there are no specific regulations unique to Birmingham for the planning of recessing cranks; general UK construction and safety standards, including building codes and engineering best practices, apply.

Meanwhile, over 1,400 reports have been made about illegal dropped kerbs in Birmingham, but no comment has been received from Birmingham City's Planning Department regarding any action taken to counteract this rise.

When properly installed, dropped kerbs protect pedestrians and utilities beneath the pavement. The cost of installing a dropped kerb, including application fees, typically ranges from £1,500 to £3,000, but can increase significantly if additional work is needed, such as tree removal.

As the city continues to grapple with this issue, residents are reminded to adhere to the law and seek the necessary permits before undertaking any construction projects that involve dropped kerbs or tree felling. The consequences of non-compliance are not only detrimental to the environment and infrastructure but also carry potential legal penalties.

Unauthorized tree felling for construction of unlawful dropped curbs spotted in Birmingham