Blog>Cost Guides>Driveway block paving: Cost breakdown 2025
Last updated: 6 April 2025
Driveway block paving: Cost breakdown 2025
A paved driveway is a popular choice for many British homeowners, creating a fabulous first impression, especially when properly installed. Read on for a complete guide to driveway block paving costs and help finding reliable contractors near you.
Fast Facts
The average cost of a block paved driveway in 2025 is between £90 - £130 per m², or around £5,500 for a double driveway
Clay and natural stone pavers are the most expensive option, while concrete blocks are more affordable
Several factors influence the cost of a paved driveway, including material choice, ground prep, drainage, and labour rates
The average cost to pave a driveway with brick paving is around £110 per m².
However, several factors will influence your overall project cost, including:
The size of your driveway
Your chosen paving material
Groundwork and drainage requirements
Regional labour rates
Read on for a full breakdown of costs for a variety of different paving options and the key factors to be aware of when planning your budget.
How much does a paved driveway cost in 2025?
Block paving continues to be a firm favourite with UK homeowners due to its durability, classic aesthetic, and versatility. If you're considering this option for your home, take a look at these block paving prices to help plan your budget:
| Item | Range - Low | Range - High | Average cost +VAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excavating area of driveway to be constructed (per m²) | £30 | £50 | £40 |
| Block paving driveway (per 50m²) | £4,500 | £6,500 | £5,500 |
| Brick paving (per m²) | £90 | £130 | £110 |
| Concrete driveway (per m²) | £70 | £110 | £90 |
| Asphalt driveway (per m²) | £70 | £110 | £90 |
| Block paving materials | |||
| Clay blocks (per m²) | £70 | £100 | £85 |
| Concrete blocks (per m²) | £20 | £60 | £40 |
| Natural stone blocks (per m²) | £50 | £105 | £80 |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |||
For perspective, installing block paving on a double driveway, which typically averages around 50m², would cost in the region of £5,500.
By comparison, the same-sized driveway would cost around £3,000 if you opted for gravel, or up to £6,000 for resin.
Get an accurate quote for the cost of your block paving driveway
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Types of blocked paved driveways
There are several types of paving for driveways, each offering unique features and price points.
If you’re considering sourcing the materials or installing the driveway yourself, you’ll need to calculate the number of blocks required. It’s always sensible to add 10% for wastage to make sure you have enough blocks to finish the job.
Here's a guide as to what you can expect to pay:
Brick paving: £90-£130per m²
Concrete block paving: £20-£60per m²
Natural stone block paving: £50-£105per m²
Clay block paving: £70-£100per m²
Concrete is the most affordable option, however, it's extremely durable and available in a wide range of styles.
Natural stone has a high-end look, while clay has a more traditional appeal - both sit at the higher end of the price spectrum.
Factors affecting the cost of block paved driveways
The total price you pay to pave your driveway will depend on several factors. These typically include:
Driveway size
The first variable is a fairly obvious one - the larger your driveway, the more you'll pay in material and labour costs. As a guide:
A small, single-car driveway (20m²) might cost around: £2,400
A double-car driveway (50m²) would cost in the region of: £5,500
A large, multiple-car driveway might cost around: £8,000
Type of blocks used
As outlined above, there are various block paving materials to choose from, including concrete, brick, clay, and natural stone.
Additional options include composite resin paving blocks and permeable block paving.
An experienced driveway contractor will be able to guide you on the best choice for your home, needs, and budget.
Pattern and design complexity
One of the main allures of block paving is the versatility in colours and designs. But of course, the more complex and intricate the pattern, the more you'll be quoted in labour time.
Ground preparation
The quality of the excavation and subbase is critical to your driveway’s success. An element of ground preparation is to be expected, but extensive work, for example, if you have particularly uneven or unstable ground, will increase the price of your project.
Drainage requirements
As an experienced driveway contractor will tell you, driveway installations must be SUDS compliant (Sustainable Urban Drainage System).
To ensure compliance, you must either:
Choose a permeable driveway material, for example, permeable block paving
Or, ensure adequate drainage, for example, via a soakaway
If a drainage solution needs to be incorporated into your new driveway, this will increase the overall cost.
Edging and kerbs
Block paving edging and kerbs offer more than just a neat finish. They play an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of your drive, preventing it from moving and spreading.
As such, this is a necessary expense to budget for when planning your block paving project.
Regional differences in labour rates
Labour rates for driveway contractors will vary across the UK. Experience will also play a part in the rate your driveway installer charges.
Start your search for a local driveway contractor today
When getting quotes for your driveway paving project, it’s important to understand what's included in the price and what isn’t.
It’s easy to base the cost on the square metre size of the driveway, but ask your local driveway specialists to provide a detailed breakdown of costs and possible extras.
Don't be tempted to choose a cheap driveway installer - cutting corners with preparation, especially, will likely lead to the need for costly repairs in the not-too-distant future.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
Hidden costs to consider
We've highlighted the main factors that can impact the cost of your block paving driveway. However, there are some less obvious costs to be aware of too.
Access and removal of the old surface
If your driveway contractor has difficulty accessing the area to be paved or the old surface needs to be removed before starting work, this can increase costs.
Excavation and waste removal
If extensive groundwork is needed, or the old surface needs to be removed, this material will need to go somewhere! If skip hire is required, this will be charged extra.
Planning permission (if required)
In some cases, planning permission may be required, particularly for non-permeable surfaces. Factor in the cost of planning permission fees if so.
Weed prevention and sealant
Membranes and sealants will help to protect your driveway and keep it looking its best for longer, but this may come with an additional charge, so be sure to check with your installer.
VAT
VAT will add 20% to the final bill, so if you're dealing with a limited company, make sure you check the quote to ensure it's included from the outset.
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What are the benefits of adding a paved driveway?
If you're still pondering whether block paving is the right choice for your home, here's a summary of the main benefits of this driveway material:
Low maintenance: Block paving is brilliant at withstanding the elements and just needs occasional sweeping and weed control
Durable: It's designed to withstand heavy loads, and is resistant to most chemicals and oils, and the harsh UK weather
Versatile: Block paving offers a wide choice of styles, colours, and layouts so you can completely customise the look of your driveway
Easy to repair: Damaged blocks can be replaced without needing to redo the whole driveway
Adding a paved driveway: Checklist
Decide on the block type, colour, and design
Contact your local council if your project requires excavation work or planning permission
Speak to local driveway contractors to get accurate estimates and detailed costs for paving your driveway
Always hire a knowledgeable and experienced tradesperson who can talk to you about SUDS compliance and show you examples of their previous work
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
FAQs
Does a block paved driveway add value to my home?
Yes, a well-maintained, properly installed block paved driveway will enhance your property's kerb appeal and potentially increase its resale value.
Why do block paving quotes vary so much?
Variations in quotes could stem from the materials used, the size of the driveway, the complexity of the design, ground conditions, and regional labour rates.
Do I need planning permission for a block paved driveway?
If your driveway uses non-permeable materials and directs water toward the street or public drains, you may need planning permission. Speak to your local planning authority to be certain.
How long does it take to install a block paved driveway?
On average, expect a standard-sized block driveway to take between 3-5 days to complete, depending on the site preparation needed and the project complexity.
Does block paving require maintenance?
Block paving is considered fairly low maintenance, especially if a weed membrane and sealant are included as part of the installation. Occasional cleaning will keep your block paved driveway looking its best.
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