Position & spacing
The post needs to block the usable vehicle path without obstructing people, gates, opening doors or necessary access. A wide entrance may need more than one post.
Secure the driveway without leaving a permanent obstruction.
Manual telescopic bollards rise from a ground sleeve and lock upright to block vehicle access. When unlocked, the post lowers below the driveway surface so you can drive over the position.
Ask for a quote ↗The right position depends on driveway width, turning space, drainage and the depth available beneath the surface. We assess those points before specifying a post. A keyed manual bollard suits households comfortable raising it each time security is needed.
A telescopic bollard is a manually operated security post that moves inside a sleeve set into the ground. It is also called a retractable driveway bollard.
Lift the post from its ground sleeve when you want to block vehicle access.
Secure it upright using the lock on the chosen model. Keep the key somewhere accessible.
Unlock and lower the post in a controlled way before driving in or out. Check the lid and lowered height of the selected product.
Good installation starts with the position and what is below the surface. A photograph helps, but the exact specification depends on a site check.
The post needs to block the usable vehicle path without obstructing people, gates, opening doors or necessary access. A wide entrance may need more than one post.
Block paving, tarmac, concrete and resin each need an appropriate way to cut, support and reinstate the surrounding surface.
The sleeve needs space below ground. Drainage, cables, pipes and shallow foundations can affect placement or rule out a particular model.
The sleeve must be installed to the manufacturer's drainage instructions. Dirt or standing water can interfere with operation, so cleaning and checking the lock matter.
The strongest or tallest post is not automatically the best choice. Think about how often you use the entrance and what you need to stop.
| Option | How you use it | Usually suits |
|---|---|---|
| Manual telescopic | Lift and lock by hand; retract into the ground for access. | Driveways used regularly where an upright post is wanted when the vehicle is parked. |
| Lift-assist telescopic ↗ | Still manual, with assistance when raising the post. | Someone who prefers less lifting effort. |
| Automatic rising ↗ | Powered operation using the controls specified for the system. | Frequent access where getting out to lift a post is inconvenient. |
| Fold-down parking post ↗ | Unlock and fold onto the surface. | Controlling an allocated parking bay where space is the main concern. |
If you need a documented impact or security rating, ask for the certification of the exact product offered. A general description such as “heavy-duty” does not establish a tested rating.
The cost depends on the model, number of posts, ground conditions, surface reinstatement and any extra work needed around buried services or drainage. We quote for the actual site rather than publishing a product-only price that could be mistaken for an installed price.
Send your town or postcode, approximate driveway width, surface type and a couple of photos. If a specific insurance or security standard matters, tell us before the product is chosen.
Discuss your driveway ↗We discuss driveway bollards for properties across Kent and Medway, including Maidstone, Canterbury, Ashford, Dartford, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Gravesend, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Folkestone, Dover and Medway.
Many telescopic posts are designed to lower into a sleeve with a low-profile lid. Exact ground clearance and finish depend on the model and installation, so check these before ordering.
These surfaces can often accommodate a ground sleeve, but the substrate, available depth, services and method of reinstatement must be assessed. We cannot confirm suitability from the surface finish alone.
It depends on the width and vehicle paths. One centrally placed post may suit a narrow entrance; a wider or offset approach may need more. Placement must leave the access you still require.
A standard manual telescopic bollard is raised and lowered by hand and locked with a key; it does not need a motor. If you want powered operation, see our automatic bollards.
Drainage is an important part of the sleeve installation. If the site has standing water or a high water table, an in-ground model may be unsuitable. We would check that before recommending one.
That depends on your insurer and the exact model. Ask your insurer what evidence or rating it requires before buying; we cannot promise a premium reduction.
The total depends on the post, number required, groundworks, drainage and driveway finish. Send us your postcode and photos for a site-specific quotation.
Keep the lid and sleeve free of debris and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and the lock. Avoid dropping the post freely into its sleeve.
Choose your town for local site-planning advice, or browse all areas.
Send the town, the type of entrance and a description of what you want to prevent. Photos help us understand the site.
Request a quote ↗