Kerb replacement works

Where we reconstruct the kerb completely, the full length of the kerb over the street is excavated (typically both sides), where a new compacted rubble base is installed after which the concrete kerb is constructed. All our full kerb renewals go through a rigorous design process we optimise the gradient and adjust the levels to make sure the resulting road shape and verge levels are consistent and to current standard. Many of Unley's kerbs are quite low, so while we aim to achieve a 150mm high kerb often only 100mm high can be achieved to match in with the existing levels.

Where we retain the existing kerb but replace small defects only, the sections of excavation are typically only 2 to 5 metres long and usually this is the result of tree lift. Where possible we aim to install treenet inlets upstream of trees to encourage root growth away from the kerb and prevent future lifting but also in future when lift may occur to provide soakage and prevent the nuisance ponding. The added benefit is a healthier tree!

While the kerb provides delineation and a barrier between the road and verge/footpath, its primary function is the important role of conveying stormwater downstream. Kerb and watertable is designed to optimise the flow it can carry without making large or deep flows in the road that wet your shoes when you step out of the car.

While some kerb is renewed because it has reached the end of its life and is falling apart, on many occasions the kerb is renewed as the amount of lift and defects in the kerb prevent water flow causing nuisance and it is more economical to replace the entire length than fix each defect.

Residents directly affected by the works will receive a letter with a description of the works proposed at least a month in advance. 

Just prior to the works beginning residents will receive a letter to let you know the work is about to commence with contact details.

While we try to minimise the impact to residents, unfortunately some inconvenience may occur such as:

• Access to driveways may be limited for short periods of time, however we aim to provide access to all properties with a temporary rubble crossing point,
• There may be road closures during periods of excavation or when concrete trucks come to pour,
• Generally works are undertaken between 7am and 6pm Monday to Saturday.

When construction works are occurring your street is a work site and everyone's safety is important so please take care and listen to construction crews as they are approachable and willing to help if you need. Alternatively, please call the contact person included in the letter. 

To minimise impacts we consider holidays weather and highly trafficked areas. Our time lines may change due to unforeseen circumstances, this makes it difficult to notify affected residents earlier.

I would like to widen my driveway or install a new stormwater outlet from my house to the road, how can I do these works at the same time as the construction?

There is an application form for residents to apply to change their driveway or stormwater on Council land. Further information can be found here Works on Public Land.

After kerb construction has occurred can I plant vegetation in the Council verge?

There is an application form for residents to apply to plant vegetation on Council’s verge. Further information can be found here Works on Public Land.

You may also wish to enrol for our green verge program and other greening initiatives that can be found here Greening Unley.

If you have recently had works completed in your street, we would love to hear from you, please complete an online survey here:

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