A well-designed, professionally installed driveway immediately improves the appearance of any property and can add real value. With several material options available at different price points, understanding the choices available helps you make the right investment for your Hampshire home.
Driveway Material Options
Each driveway material has different characteristics in terms of appearance, durability, maintenance requirements and cost. Here is a comparison of the main options used in Hampshire and Dorset.
- Resin bound gravel: premium finish, permeable, low-maintenance
- Block paving: traditional, durable, can be repaired in sections
- Tarmac: cost-effective, quick to install, long-lasting
- Loose gravel: cheapest option, good drainage, needs occasional raking
- Porcelain: high-end contemporary finish, very durable
Planning Permission
Front driveways over 5m² now require a permeable surface (or drainage to a soakaway) to comply with permitted development rules. Resin bound, block paving with permeable jointing or gravel all qualify. Solid impermeable surfaces require planning permission.
What the Installation Involves
All driveway installations require excavation of the existing surface, installation of a compacted sub-base, installation of edging restraints and then the surface layer. The excavation depth varies by material — tarmac and block paving need the deepest sub-base.
A&T Landscapes installs driveways across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 for a free driveway assessment and quote.