Which concrete kerbs comply with the Specification of Highway Works?

To achieve compliance for use in kerbs, footways and paved areas, concrete kerbs must satisfy the appropriate British Standard (BS) testing requirements. For this reason, they are commonly referred to as ‘British Standard Kerbs’. 

Historically, the tests needed could be found in the Specification of Highway Works (SHW) document that was part of the Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW). 

Concrete kerbs were included in Series NG 1100 of the SHW, and Clause 1101 detailed the appropriate testing requirements. Local Authority construction specifications were based on the SHW and included tables such as the one below.

However, the test standard BS 7263 was withdrawn in October 20061 and replaced by BS EN 1340:20032 for concrete kerbs with additional testing criteria.  

In a further development, National Highways updated the MCHW in September 2025.  

The information relating to concrete kerbs is now in “CP 207 Instructions for specifiers for CC 207 Footway, cycle track, paved area, kerb unit and access step construction”³. 

With the properties to be tested and their requirements in Table 8.15. 

As this is a recent update, local authorities may refer to previous documents in their specifications, and they may also choose to deviate from national guidance.   

The Contractor has the responsibility for ensuring that all the materials comply with the specification and must supply test certificates for concrete kerbs. They are usually sourced from the manufacturer or supplier who will be testing to ensure their concrete kerbs and concrete edging comply with current standards and the latest SHW.  

There are many concrete kerbs and kerb edgings on the market from a host of manufacturers. They meet the functional requirements for highway works that are in widespread use on roads throughout the country. 

Are the aesthetics of concrete kerbs covered within the Highway Works specifications? 

No, there are no aesthetic requirements within the Highway Works specifications. The specifications are focused on ensuring that key functional properties of concrete kerbs and edging kerbs are met.  

However,  this does not preclude concrete kerbs that offer an enhanced visual appearance as manufacturers ensure that they are tested to comply with use on highways.  

Concrete kerbs are available in a variety of styles and finishes for use on projects such as high-end housing, apartment, retail and public realm developments. For these specifications, the enhanced visual appearance of kerbs and edging can help to complement the overall site aesthetics as well as meet functional requirements. This is especially true where, rather than asphalt, concrete block paving, paving slabs and permeable paving are used. These add colour and texture to a development can be complemented by equally attractive kerbs to add continuity and style to the overall appearance of areas of hard landscaping.

Where can I get advice when specifying concrete kerbs and edging that meet highway requirements? 

Tobermore has extensive experience in supplying kerbs and edging products that meet highway functional requirements and offer aesthetic benefits for a wide range of projects.  

Sam McBride, Tobermore’s Technical Manager, explains: “We ensure that all our kerbs and edging products not only meet the strict requirements of the appropriate British standards but also offer aesthetic options for our customers. This enables developments to use products that are stunning visual alternatives to standardised grey kerbs that can make a huge difference to the overall aesthetic appeal of a development.”       

​​​If you would like more information on the concrete kerb and edging options for your project, please contact our technical team, who will be happy to help.