Driveway Cost Calculator

Estimate driveway installation costs by size, material and location. Covers block paving, tarmac, resin bound, gravel and concrete. UK 2026 prices.

Your Driveway Details

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Your Results

36.0 m²

Driveway Area

£3,693 – £5,885

Estimated Total Cost (inc. VAT)

£4,789

Midpoint Estimate

Price per m² (all-in)

£103 – £163/m²

Cost Breakdown

ItemLowMidHigh
Block Paving supply & fit£2,880£3,600£4,320
Edging / Kerbs (25.0 m)£375£500£625
Drainage Channel£150£275£400
Old Surface Removal (36.0 m²)£288£414£540
Total (inc. VAT)£3,693£4,789£5,885

* Prices include VAT at 20%. Location multiplier applied: Rest of UK (×1).

Planning permission note

Planning permission is generally not required for driveways using permeable surfaces (gravel, resin bound, or block paving with permeable jointing). If you plan to use an impermeable material such as concrete or standard tarmac, permitted development rights allow you to proceed without permission for areas under 5 m² — but larger impermeable driveways may require householder planning permission.

Always check with your local planning authority before starting work. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a standard driveway cost in the UK in 2026?↓
A typical double driveway (around 36 m²) costs between £1,800 and £4,300 including VAT, depending on material and location. Block paving and resin bound surfaces sit at the upper end (£80–120/m²), while gravel is the most affordable option (£30–50/m²). Add £500–1,000 for edging, drainage, and removal of an old surface. London and South East installs typically cost 20–25% more than the national average.
Which driveway material is best value for money?↓
Gravel has the lowest upfront cost (£30–50/m²) and is quick to install, but requires regular raking and topping up. Tarmac is a popular mid-range choice (£50–80/m²) — durable, low maintenance, and suitable for most vehicles. Block paving (£80–120/m²) costs more initially but adds kerb appeal and can last 20–30 years with minimal maintenance. Resin bound is an attractive permeable option at a similar price to block paving and requires no planning permission for drainage reasons.
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?↓
In England, you do not need planning permission if the driveway uses a permeable surface (gravel, permeable block paving, resin bound aggregate) regardless of size. For impermeable surfaces (concrete, standard tarmac, porcelain slabs), permitted development allows driveways under 5 m² without permission. Areas of 5 m² or more using impermeable materials may require a householder planning application. Rules differ in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — always check with your local planning authority before starting work.
How long does a driveway installation take?↓
Most residential driveway installations take 1–5 days. Gravel is the quickest — often a single day. Tarmac typically takes 1–2 days. Block paving, resin bound, and porcelain slabs may take 2–5 days depending on size and preparation work required. Allow extra time if significant groundworks or drainage installation are needed.
Should I get multiple quotes for my driveway?↓
Yes — always get at least 3 quotes from local, reputable tradespeople. Prices can vary significantly between contractors. Check that each quote is like-for-like (same material, same specification, same preparation work). Ask whether the quote includes VAT, waste disposal, and any sub-base work. Verify the contractor is registered with a trade association such as Marshalls Approved Contractor or British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) for added peace of mind.
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