Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a vehicle crossover application. This is because there is not enough evidence of fault to justify an investigation and an investigation by us would not lead to a different outcome.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains about the Council’s handling of his application for a vehicle crossover. He says the Council’s decision to refuse his application has caused stress and frustration and not being able to park near his home causes inconvenience.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint, which we call ‘injustice’. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start or continue an investigation if we decide:

• there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating, or
• further investigation would not lead to a different outcome.
  (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), section 34(B))

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by the complainant.
4. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. Mr X applied to the Council for a vehicle crossover to allow access from the highway to a driveway at the front of his property. He says neighbouring properties have been granted permission for a dropped kerb and vehicle crossover.
6. The Council inspected the site in November 2025 and refused his application.
7. The Council’s policy clearly states the minimum dimensions for a driveway and has explained to Mr X that the depth of his proposed driveway does not meet its criteria. The policy also states the approval of local historic vehicle crossovers will not be considered in an application or appeal. The Council’s decision to refuse Mr X’s application for a vehicle crossover is in line with its policy and there is not enough evidence the Council is at fault to warrant an investigation.
8. Since complaining to the Ombudsman, Mr X informed the Council that a member of his household has mobility issues. The Council says these circumstances do not alter the outcome of his application. The Council has advised Mr X if the person has a Blue Badge, he can apply for an advisory marking on the highway outside his property. We cannot criticise the Council for its decision and an investigation would not lead to a different outcome.

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Final decision

9. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because there is not enough evidence the council is at fault, nor would an investigation lead to a different outcome.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman