How Much Does a New Driveway Cost in the UK?
A new driveway is one of the best kerb-appeal upgrades you can make — but it is also one of the most variable jobs for price, from a few hundred pounds for gravel to over £10,000 for a large block-paved drive.
Typical 40m² driveway, supplied and fitted. Gravel at the low end, block paving at the top.
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Cost by material (40m² driveway, fitted)
Cost per square metre (materials + labour)
Most driveway quotes are priced per square metre including sub-base and edging. Measure your drive (length × width) and multiply by the per-m² rate for a quick ballpark before you get quotes.
What affects the price
- •Excavation and disposal of the old surface — the biggest hidden cost, especially if there is a lot of spoil to remove.
- •Sub-base depth — a driveway taking cars needs a deeper, stronger base than a footpath.
- •Drainage — permeable surfaces or a channel drain add cost but may avoid planning permission.
- •A new dropped kerb (vehicle crossover) if you do not already have one.
- •Access — narrow or awkward access slows the job and raises labour.
Regional price variation
Labour is the biggest regional swing. London and the South East typically run 20–30% above the national average, while the North of England, Scotland and Wales tend to sit 5–15% below it. Material prices are fairly consistent nationwide — it is day rates that move the total. The ranges on this page assume South of England pricing unless stated.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a new driveway cost in the UK?
A typical 40m² driveway costs £1,500–£8,000 fitted. Gravel is cheapest at £1,500–£3,000, tarmac £2,500–£4,500, resin bound £3,500–£6,000 and block paving £4,000–£8,000. Price depends mainly on the material, the size of the drive and how much excavation is needed.
What is the cheapest driveway material?
Gravel is the cheapest at around £30–£60 per square metre installed. It is quick to lay and needs no curing time, but it scatters, needs occasional topping up and is not ideal on a slope.
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?
In England you need planning permission only if the driveway is over 5m² and uses an impermeable surface (standard tarmac, concrete or non-permeable block paving) that drains onto the road. Permeable surfaces — gravel, permeable block paving or resin bound — or drainage to a lawn or border within your property do not need permission.
How much does a dropped kerb cost?
A dropped kerb (vehicle crossover) typically costs £800–£2,500 including the council application fee and the kerb work. The exact cost varies by council and some insist you use their approved contractors.