Gravel Driveways Across the UK

In England, a new or replacement front driveway of any size does not normally need planning permission if it uses a permeable surface such as gravel. Planning permission is needed for an impermeable surface over 5 square metres that drains onto the road. Flats, maisonettes, listed buildings and properties covered by an Article 4 Direction or other restriction may need permission, and the rules differ in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check with your local council if unsure.

If you will drive across a pavement or verge to reach the driveway, you need a dropped kerb, also called a vehicle crossover, and you must apply to your local highway authority for it. It is a separate application from any planning permission and the council usually sets the price or approves the contractor.

Angular gravel in the 10mm to 20mm range is usually best for driveways because the stones lock together and do not roll underfoot or under tyres. 14mm and 20mm are popular choices. Rounded pea shingle looks attractive but moves around much more, so it is better suited to paths and borders unless it is laid in grids.

A typical domestic gravel driveway has around 100mm to 150mm of compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base, more on soft ground, then a weed membrane and around 40mm to 50mm of gravel on top. Laying gravel much deeper than this makes it harder to walk and drive on.

Usually, yes, on sloped drives, busy drives and anywhere you want to stop gravel spreading onto the pavement or into the house. Grids hold the stones in cells so they cannot rut or migrate, and they make the surface firmer for walking, wheelchairs and buggies. They add to the cost, typically around £20 to £50 per square metre.

A proper base and a good-quality geotextile membrane under the gravel stop most weeds growing up from the soil. Over time a few seeds blow in and germinate in the gravel itself, but they are shallow-rooted and easy to pull out or treat. Keeping leaves and debris raked off helps.

A well-built gravel driveway can last for many years. The gravel will need topping up every few years as it spreads and settles, and occasional raking keeps it level. The sub-base underneath should last much longer if it is laid and compacted properly.

A typical domestic gravel driveway takes one to three days, depending on its size, how much digging is needed, whether an old surface has to be broken out and whether drainage or grids are being installed.