How Much Does a Driveway Cost

A Pricing Guide - Durham & the North East

Driveway costs vary significantly by material. Concrete typically costs £30-£50 per square metre; tarmac or asphalt £45-£80 per square metre; block paving £65-£105 or more per square metre (around £2,000-£9,100 for a typical driveway); and resin bound driveways generally £1,400-£7,300 depending on size and design. Gravel is usually the most affordable option, from around £1-£3 per square foot, or roughly £1,200 for an average driveway, and can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance.

Tarmac is one of the cheapest and quickest surfaces to install and lasts around 15-20 years with periodic resealing, but requires more ongoing maintenance than some alternatives. Concrete costs more upfront but can last 40-50 years with comparatively little upkeep, which often makes it the more cost-effective choice over the long term. Resin bound driveways can be laid straight onto an existing solid surface, saving on groundwork, and offer around 20 years of use with minimal maintenance, though they're one of the more expensive options to install initially. Block paving sits at the higher end of the price range too, but is durable, permeable, and easy to repair section by section if it's ever damaged, often lasting up to 40 years.

Beyond the headline installation cost, it's worth weighing up maintenance and lifespan together: a cheaper surface that needs resealing every few years can cost more over time than a pricier one that needs little attention. Block paving and resin bound driveways tend to add the most kerb appeal and value to a property thanks to their appearance and durability, while gravel remains the most budget-friendly option for larger driveways. If you're replacing damaged concrete, expect to pay roughly £350-£2,000 depending on the extent of the work. Whatever material you're considering, it's worth getting a proper site visit and a detailed, itemised quote before committing.

A new driveway built from scratch may need permission from your local council, particularly where it affects public access, parking or drainage - resurfacing or replacing an existing driveway in the same footprint is normally exempt, but it's worth checking with your council before work starts. It's also worth asking any contractor about the sub-base and drainage they'll use, since a driveway is only as durable as what lies beneath the surface, whatever material you choose on top.