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A new driveway can change the feel of your home more than you might expect. It improves kerb appeal, gives you practical off-road parking, and can make coming home feel a bit more finished.

For many households, it’s also a long-term investment, something you might only do once while you live in the property, so it’s worth getting right the first time.

Whether you’re planning a brand new driveway or resurfacing an existing one, the final cost will depend on the material you choose, the size of the area, and how much groundwork is needed.

This guide explains typical driveway costs, material options, labour charges, and the extra things worth budgeting for before work begins.

How much does a new driveway cost?

In the UK, a new driveway typically costs between £60 and £120 per m², depending on the material you choose and how much groundwork is needed. For many homes, gravel is the lowest-cost option, while resin and block paving tend to sit at the higher end.

Average driveway costs per m²

The cost of a new driveway (materials and labour) typically ranges from £60 per m² for gravel up to around £120 per m² for resin-bound.

• Tarmac driveways cost in the region of £90 per m²

• Concrete driveways sit around £95 per m²

• Block paving driveways typically cost around £100 per m²

• Average brick driveway costs around £98 per m²

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To understand the typical cost of a new driveway in your area, request quotes from a selection of checked local driveway contractors. Simply enter your postcode to get started.

Driveway costs at a glance

• Gravel driveway cost: around £60 per m²

• Tarmac driveway cost: around £90 per m²

• Concrete driveway cost: around £95 per m²

• Block paving driveway cost: around £100 per m²

• Brick driveway cost: around £98 per m²

• Resin bound driveway cost: around £120 per m²

• Driveway installation labour: usually £30–£50 per m²

• Total cost of a 2-car driveway: from £3,000 for gravel up to around £6,000 for resin-bound

• Cheapest driveway material: gravel

• Driveway extension cost: typically £100–£250 per m²

Driveway costs by material

Gravel driveway costs

Gravel is usually the cheapest driveway option and is especially popular for larger rural properties.

Typical costs:

• Gravel: £30 per m²

• Installation: £30 per m²

• Average total: £60 per m²

• Double driveway: around £3,000

Pros

• Lowest-cost option

• Quick to install

• Wide choice of colours

• Good security because it makes noise underfoot

Cons

• Needs more maintenance than other surfaces

• Stones can spread

• Not ideal for slopes

• Can be awkward for bins and pushchairs

Tarmac driveway costs

Tarmac is a practical, hard-wearing option and is often chosen for straightforward, low-maintenance driveways.

Typical costs:

• Tarmac: £50 per m²

• Installation: £40 per m²

• Average total: £90 per m²

• Double driveway: around £4,500

Pros

• Good value

• Uniform finish

• Works well on slopes

• Fairly low maintenance

Cons

• Finish depends heavily on installation quality

• Fewer design choices

• Can look plain on larger areas

Concrete driveway costs

Concrete driveways, especially imprinted finishes, are often chosen to give a more decorative look without using individual blocks.

Typical costs:

• Concrete: £50 per m²

• Installation: £45 per m²

• Average total: £95 per m²

• Double driveway: around £4,750

Pros

• Long-lasting

• Wide choice of patterns and colours

• Usually cheaper than block paving

Cons

• Can crack over time

• Appearance can fade

• Final finish depends on installer quality

Block paving driveway costs

Block paving remains a very popular choice because it offers lots of flexibility in colour, layout and finish.

Typical costs:

• Block paving: £50 per m²

• Installation: £50 per m²

• Average total: £100 per m²

• Double driveway: around £5,000

Pros

• Huge choice of styles

• Patch repairs are possible

• Long-lasting if laid well

• Suits a wide range of properties

Cons

• Labour-intensive

• More expensive to install

• Quality can vary depending on materials and workmanship

The Cob & Pen Public House, Before: After by Mannmade Drives Designs Ltd

Brick driveway costs

Brick driveways are often chosen for their traditional look and character. They suit period homes particularly well, but can work just as nicely in modern settings if you're looking for a warmer, more classic finish. Typical costs:

• Brick: £48 per m²

• Installation: £50 per m²

• Average total: £98 per m²

Pros

• Traditional appearance

• Often slightly cheaper than block paving

• Individual bricks can be replaced if damaged

• Can add character and kerb appeal

Cons

• May need more maintenance over time

• Weeds can grow between joints if not maintained

• Installation quality has a big impact on durability

Resin bound driveway costs

Resin bound driveways are increasingly popular for their clean finish and low-maintenance feel.

Typical costs:

• Resin bound: £70 per m²

• Installation: £50 per m²

• Average total: £120 per m²

• Double driveway: around £6,000

Pros

• Smart, modern appearance

• Permeable and SUDS compliant

• Low maintenance

• Good range of finishes

Cons

• One of the more expensive options

• Can need occasional maintenance to control moss

• Best results depend on good preparation and installation

Driveway size and example project costs

The size of your driveway has a big impact on the final cost, so it helps to look at some example project prices.

A typical 2-car driveway in the UK normally measures around 50m² — guide prices (for materials and labour) are as follows:

• Gravel: £3,000

• Tarmac: £4,500

• Concrete: £4,750

• Block paving: £5,000

• Resin: £6,000

Driveway installation costs

Looking at labour alone, driveway installation usually costs between £30–£50 per m², depending on the surface you choose.

As a guide:

• Gravel installation: around £30 per m²

• Tarmac installation: around £40 per m²

• Concrete installation: around £45 per m²

• Block paving installation: around £50 per m²

• Resin installation: around £50 per m²

What affects the cost of a driveway?

The final price of a driveway is shaped by more than just the top surface.

Key factors that influence cost include:

• Driveway material: gravel is usually the cheapest, while resin, block paving and brick tend to cost more

• Size of the driveway: larger areas need more materials, more labour, and often more groundwork

• Ground conditions and sub-base preparation: poor ground or a weak existing base can add significantly to the cost

• Drainage requirements: if the surface is not permeable, additional drainage may be needed

• Access to the site: restricted access can make excavation and installation slower and more expensive

• Location in the UK: labour costs are often higher in London and the South East

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Additional costs to budget for

The surface itself is only part of the cost. Depending on the state of the site, there may be extra work needed before the driveway can be laid properly.

Common additional costs include:

• Groundworks: preparing the area properly is essential for a long-lasting driveway. Groundworks typically cost around £20–£100 per m²

• Skip hire: if excavation creates a lot of waste, you may need to factor in skip hire. Typical skip hire cost: £125–£320 per week

• Driveway extension: extending an existing driveway usually costs more than creating a new one because the whole area often needs to be overlaid to avoid visible joints. Typical driveway extension cost: £100–£250 per m²

• Gates: if you’re upgrading the front of the property more widely, a driveway gate may be part of the overall budget. Typical driveway gate supply and installation cost: £1,650 each

What should be included in a driveway quote?

A good driveway quote should do more than give you a total price.

It should clearly set out:

• The driveway material being used

• Excavation and how waste will be removed

• Sub-base preparation

• Labour costs

• Drainage provisions if needed

• Any edging or kerbs

• What is excluded, such as gates or landscaping

• How long the work is expected to take

A written quote makes it much easier to compare like-for-like. And because driveway work is a significant investment, clarity at this stage helps you feel confident about the decision before any work begins.

Drainage and planning permission for driveways

You won't usually need planning permission for a new or replacement driveway if you use a permeable surface.

Many common driveway materials can be installed in a way that meets Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) requirements.

If you choose an impermeable surface, such as some types of concrete, tarmac or paving, suitable drainage will usually be needed.

This is one of those areas where an experienced contractor should be able to advise you clearly before work starts.

How long does driveway installation take?

Driveway installation times vary depending on the size of the area, the amount of excavation needed, and the material being laid.

A simple gravel or block paving driveway may be fairly quick to install, while larger projects or those needing more extensive groundwork will take longer.

Your contractor should be able to give you a realistic timeline once they’ve seen the site. They should also explain how the work will affect access to your home while the driveway is being installed.

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Driveway cost calculator

If you want a rough starting point before getting quotes, our driveway cost calculator can help.

Your total cost will usually depend on the size of the area in m², the driveway material you choose — whether that’s gravel, tarmac, block paving, brick or resin — labour charges, groundwork and disposal, and any extras such as gates or drainage.

The calculator offers a guide price only. For an accurate quote, it’s always best to ask a checked local driveway specialist to assess the site properly.

Can you install a driveway yourself?

Some simple gravel or block paving driveways can be tackled as a DIY project, but driveway installation is usually more technical than it first appears.

The success of a driveway depends heavily on:

• Excavation depth

• Sub-base quality

• Drainage

• Levels and finish

If these are wrong, the driveway may sink, crack, or hold water. For a driveway that is built to last, professional installation is usually the safer option.

Driveway repair and maintenance costs

If your existing driveway is generally sound, resurfacing or repairs may be more cost-effective than a full replacement.

And if you're looking to factor in the cost of ongoing maintenance, budget between £8.50–£15.50 per m² for driveway cleaning.

Cheapest driveway options

If keeping costs down is the main priority, gravel is usually the cheapest driveway material at around £30 per m² for materials and £60 per m² as a total cost (incl. installation).

If you want something affordable but lower-maintenance, tarmac is another popular choice at around £90 per m² (for materials and labour).

For many homeowners, the cheapest option is not just about upfront price, it’s also about how much maintenance the surface will need over time.

Paving vs tarmac driveway cost

• A tarmac driveway averages around £2,200 for a single car driveway, up to around £7,000 for a large, multiple car driveway

• Comparatively, a block paving driveway typically ranges from £2,400 to £8,000

Gravel vs concrete driveway costs

• A single-car driveway using gravel tends to cost around £1,400 whereas the same size driveway in concrete typically costs around £2,300

• A double driveway in gravel normally costs in the region of £3,000 while a double driveway in concrete will set you back around £4,750

Sustainable driveway solutions

If sustainability is important to you, there are a few driveway options worth considering.

Permeable surfaces such as gravel, grass pavers or resin bound driveways can help water drain naturally and reduce surface runoff.

Grass pavers are less common, but they can suit some homes well and offer a more natural look.

Pros

• Porous

• Natural appearance

• Can work well in some settings

Cons

• Needs maintenance

• Fewer specialist installers

• Can be expensive to install

Before you go ahead, it helps to run through a few basics:

• Decide which driveway material suits your budget and home

• Measure the area so you know the likely m² cost

• Ask whether drainage is needed

• Check what groundworks are included

• Get a few quotes so you can see how prices and approaches differ

• Confirm what happens to waste and excavated material

• Ask about guarantees on the finished work

Hiring a good driveway contractor

Even the best materials won’t perform well if the installation isn’t done properly. A well-installed driveway should last for many years, so taking time to choose the right installer is usually time well spent.

A good contractor should be able to:

• Show examples of previous work

• Provide a written quote

• Explain the sub-base and drainage plan

• Confirm insurance and guarantees

• Talk you through suitable materials for your property

It’s also worth comparing several quotes. If one price looks much lower than the others, it’s sensible to check exactly what is and isn’t included.

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When should you speak to a driveway specialist?

If you’re deciding between resurfacing and full replacement, unsure which material is right for your home, or concerned about drainage or planning rules, it’s worth getting advice early.

A driveway specialist can assess the site, explain the most suitable options, and give you a clearer idea of total costs before you commit.

That early advice often helps avoid expensive changes later.

Find driveway contractors near you

If you’re ready to start your driveway project, comparing quotes from local specialists is the best way to understand what a fair price looks like in your area.

You should expect a contractor to assess the site, explain what the work will involve (including the prep work), and give you a clear written quote before anything gets underway.

FAQs

How do I calculate my driveway costs?

To calculate the cost of a new driveway, measure the area in m², multiply it by the cost per m² of your chosen material, then add installation and groundwork costs. A driveway cost calculator can give you a useful starting estimate.

Are resin driveways worth it?

For many homeowners, yes, resin driveways are worth the cost. They're low maintenance, durable, and SUDS compliant.

Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?

Planning permission is not usually needed for a driveway, as long as the surface is permeable or suitable drainage is provided. If the driveway affects road access or a listed building, it’s best to check with your local authority.

What is the difference between tarmac and asphalt driveways?

Tarmac is made from crushed stone and tar, while asphalt has a smoother finish and is often seen as more durable. In everyday use, the terms are often used interchangeably.

What is cheaper – asphalt or concrete?

Asphalt is usually cheaper, at around £80–£100 per m², while printed concrete is typically £80–£110 per m².

How long does a tarmac driveway last?

A tarmac driveway can last around 10 to 20 years, depending on installation quality, usage and weather exposure.

What’s the most environmentally friendly driveway?

Permeable surfaces such as gravel, grass pavers and resin bound driveways are usually the most environmentally friendly because they allow water to drain naturally.

Can you lay a new drive over your existing drive?

In most cases, it’s better not to lay a new drive over an existing one. The main exception is tarmac or asphalt, where a new layer can sometimes be laid over the existing surface.

How can I reduce driveway maintenance costs?

To reduce driveway maintenance costs, choose a lower-maintenance surface, clean the driveway regularly, deal with stains early, and use sealant where appropriate to protect the finish.

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