Concerns Regarding New Dropped Kerb Outside 22 Elmhurst, Belvedere

Dear Bexley Council,

I hope you're well. I'm writing to raise a few concerns following the recent resurfacing work carried out on the dropped kerb outside 22 Elmhurst, Belvedere, Kent, DA17 5PH. While I appreciate the efforts made to improve our local infrastructure, there are a couple of issues I’d be grateful if you could look into.

On Saturday 12th April 2025 at approximately 15:45, my neighbour at number 18 witnessed a DPD delivery van accidentally drive over the new kerb, which caused one of the wooden planks to come loose. These wooden planks appear to be supporting the new tarmac, but they don’t seem particularly secure or suitable for long-term use. My neighbour was in the alley at the time, saw it happen, and called me immediately, just before the driver delivered a parcel to my address. She said the new tarmac lifted up like a pie crust when the van made contact. She also took a photo of the van on the kerb directly outside my home.

I spoke to the delivery driver myself, as he had just delivered a parcel to me. He claimed he hadn’t noticed the damage, but as shown in Image 2, I am with him approaching the kerb to inspect the issue.

This incident highlights how easily the current setup can be disturbed.

I’d be grateful if you could advise on the following:

1. Temporary Fix? Are the wooden planks intended as a temporary measure while the tarmac sets? If so, could you confirm when the work will be properly completed? Based on what my neighbour saw, the tarmac actually lifted off the ground, so it seems likely the area may need to be resurfaced again.

2. Final Finish: At present, the kerb looks quite out of place in comparison to the rest of the street. It was previously a concrete dropped kerb, which I assume was paid for by the former homeowner. Will this be finished in a way that matches the surrounding area?

3. Future Communication: On 22nd March, workmen installed a BT manhole cover outside, digging up and cementing the pavement without any prior notice. They returned on 24th March and again blocked our driveway, with no warning. However, the workers who laid the tarmac on 7th April were much more considerate, who knocked beforehand to let us know what they were doing. As I work for the emergency services, access to my vehicle is essential. I’d be grateful if we could be informed in advance of any future planned works.

I've attached a few images for your reference:

Image 1: Photo of van showing registration plate and driver. Taken by my neighbour shortly after the incident.

Image 2: Taken from my Ring doorbell, showing me and the driver inspecting the damage.

Image 3: A clear image of the damaged wood and tarmac following the incident.

Please let me know the next steps and when we can expect the kerb to be completed properly.

Thank you very much for your time and assistance, I know you’re busy and really appreciate your support in helping to resolve this.

Kind regards,

Sam Cripps 22 Elmhurst, Belvedere, Kent, DA17 5PH Sam_cripps@yahoo.co.uk