New dropped kerbs and accessibility improvements across Telford and Wrekin

Telford & Wrekin Council has completed a borough-wide pedestrian accessibility improvement programme, delivering 250 new or improved dropped kerbs.

New dropped kerbs and accessibility improvements have been installed in Apley Castle, Brookside, Dawley & Aqueduct, Hadley & Leegomery, Madeley & Sutton Hill, The Nedge and Woodside. The scheme was delivered over the winter and spring, with locations prioritised based on requests from residents.

Derek Loveitt of Ketley Bank said: "I'm really chuffed with it to be honest. It's quite a big scooter so the new kerb means I'm not worried about it tipping or slipping when it's wet and got some confidence to go out and about and do my shopping that sort of thing."

Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said: "We know that Derek now has the confidence to leave his home without fear of falling or slipping in his mobility scooter, and the freedom to enjoy his independence.

“The real measure of our performance comes from our residents. Their views are what matter most, and we listen closely to their experiences on our roads.

“This project supports the council’s commitment to protect, care and invest, improving accessibility for those who need it most.”

A dropped kerb is a section of pavement that has been lowered to meet road level, allowing pedestrians to cross more easily without stepping up or down a full-height kerb. They improve access for wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, parents with pushchairs and those using mobility aids.

Telford & Wrekin Council has also been ranked among the top eight local authorities in England for reducing potholes over the last four years and has consistently achieved high rankings in the National Highways and Transport (NHT) survey, including in 2025.

As a designated New Town, much of Telford and Wrekin’s road network was constructed rapidly during the 1960s and 1970s, transforming a derelict industrial landscape into a modern borough with a 170-hectare town park at its green heart. Six decades on, many elements of this infrastructure – including bridges, footpaths, roads and reinforced concrete structures – are now reaching the end of their original design life and require careful planning and targeted investment.

Looking ahead, more than 80 highway and infrastructure improvement schemes are planned over the next 12 months, supported by a £91 million investment over the next four years, as the council continues to prioritise accessibility, safety and long-term resilience across the borough.