Do I need planning permission for a driveway in Medway?
The national Permitted Development rule applies across Medway — permeable surfacing or under 5m² of impermeable draining to soft landscaping needs no permission. Conservation areas in Rochester (around the Castle and Cathedral precinct) and parts of historic Chatham carry Article 4 directions that remove those rights, so Medway Council's conservation-area map is the first stop before ordering materials. Every driveway we install is designed to meet drainage requirements as standard — so in most cases there's nothing extra for you to worry about. If your property has any unusual circumstances, just ask and we'll advise.
How do I apply for a dropped kerb in Medway?
Medway is a unitary authority, so dropped-kerb applications are handled by Medway Council directly — not by KCC as with the rest of Kent. A £450 application fee is payable when you apply and is non-refundable if the application is declined. Construction can be carried out by Volker Highways (the council's term contractor), a contractor from Medway's approved list, or another contractor of your choice. We factor the different process and lead time into every Medway quote.
What ground conditions should I expect in Medway?
Medway ground conditions split sharply between the chalk of the North Downs — free-draining and ideal for permeable driveways around Chatham's hilltops and the Hoo peninsula — and river alluvium along the valley floor through Rochester, Strood and Gillingham. Alluvium has poor bearing capacity and a high water table, which typically forces a raised threshold, thicker sub-base and piped drainage rather than a soakaway. We confirm the ground type on site before finalising any Medway spec.