Driveway Costs UK 2026
New driveways cost roughly £25–£180 per m² depending on material, about £2,000–£5,500 for a typical 40m² drive. Use the free cost calculator below for an instant estimate.
How much does it cost?
| Option | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Gravel | £20 – £40 / m² |
| Tarmac | £45 – £80 / m² |
| Block paving | £100 – £150 / m² |
| Resin bound | £90 – £140 / m² |
| Typical 40m² drive | £2,000 – £5,500 |
Work out your own driveway cost
Put in the measurements and the calculator works from the same per-square-metre rates as the table above.
This calculator uses typical 2026 UK rates per square metre: gravel £20–£40, tarmac £45–£80, block paving £100–£150 and resin bound £90–£140, plus optional sub-base/drainage (£600–£1,500) and a dropped kerb (£800–£2,500). It’s a guide, your final price depends on access, ground conditions and finish. See our full driveway cost guide.
Remember: if you’re paving a front-garden area over 5m² with an impermeable surface that drains to the road, you’ll need planning permission, or use a permeable surface to avoid it.
How to compare quotes
- Get at least three written quotes from installers who work in your area, each one itemised rather than a single total.
- Give every installer the same brief, including materials and access, so the prices are comparable.
- Check what is excluded. Scaffolding, waste removal, making good and VAT are the usual gaps between a cheap quote and a complete one.
Related
Last updated: June 2026.
How to choose a good driveway installer
Choose a TrustMark-registered installer (or a manufacturer-approved one such as Marshalls or Brett), and make sure they meet the permeable-surface (SUDS) rules. Always get the quote in writing, ask about guarantees, and compare at least three installers before deciding.
Hidden costs to watch for
- A dropped kerb and council permit
- Sub-base preparation and drainage
- Removing the old surface
- A permeable surface or soakaway to meet SUDS rules
Driveway: quick answers
How much does a new driveway cost?
Roughly £25–£180 per m² depending on material, about £2,000–£5,500 for a typical 40m² drive. Gravel is cheapest; block paving and resin cost more.
Which driveway material is best?
Gravel is cheapest and permeable; tarmac is hard-wearing value; block paving looks smart and is repairable; resin is modern and low-maintenance. Choose based on budget, looks and drainage rules.
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?
Not if you use a permeable surface (gravel, permeable block paving or resin-bound) or direct rainwater to a lawn or soakaway. Laying more than five square metres of impermeable surface that drains to the road needs planning permission. A dropped kerb always needs council approval and a licensed contractor.