Permeable Paving
Permeable Paving in London
Permeable paving lets rainwater soak through the surface into the ground instead of running into the road. We build permeable driveways and paths in block paving, resin bound, gravel and other systems across London.
- Free written quotes, no obligation
- Driveways and paving across all of London
- Clear pricing and tidy, careful crews
Free written quotes
Clear prices in writing, no obligation
All London boroughs
Local crews, local knowledge
Fully insured
Cover for your property and ours
Quality workmanship
Careful, professional workmanship
Permeable Paving across London
More hard surfaces in front gardens means more rainwater in London’s drains. That is why the planning rules in England treat a front garden hard surface of more than 5 square metres differently if it is permeable, or if it drains to a lawn or border within the property.
Permeable construction is not just a surface. The base below has to be open-graded and sized to hold and release water, and the ground underneath has to be able to take it. We design the whole build so it works as a system.
When permeable paving is the right answer
- You are paving more than 5 square metres of front garden
- Water currently runs off your driveway into the road or towards the house
- You want to reduce puddles and surface water on the drive
- You want a surface that works with local drainage rules
- You want to avoid an extra drainage system such as a channel or soakaway
Want to talk it through?
Send us a photo or describe your space and we will tell you honestly what we would do and what it involves. A free written quote follows every site visit.
How we build permeable paving
We excavate to the depth needed, install a geotextile where appropriate and build an open-graded sub-base that stores and releases water. The surface is then laid to suit: permeable block paving with wider joints filled with grit, resin bound, or gravel with grids.
We check how the ground drains and design falls and outlets accordingly. Where soil conditions are poor, we may recommend additional drainage and explain why before we quote.
How it works
Assess drainage
We check the ground, the levels and where water goes now.
Design the build
We agree a surface and design a base that suits the ground.
Build and lay
We construct the open-graded base and lay the permeable surface.
Check and hand over
We check falls and outlets and explain how to keep it working.
Not sure which surface suits your property?
Resin, tarmac, block paving or stone: each has strengths. Tell us about your space and budget and we will recommend the right one and quote for it in writing.
Which permeable surface should I choose?
You can have permeable block paving, resin bound or gravel. Block paving gives a pattern and easy repairs, resin bound gives a smooth finish and gravel gives a natural look at lower cost. Our planning guide explains the rules.
What affects the cost?
Permeable construction usually involves deeper excavation and more stone than a standard build, so costs differ from a basic driveway. Surface choice, area, ground conditions and access all affect the price. We give a free written quote after assessing the site.
Permeable Paving in your part of London
We carry out permeable paving across every London borough. Choose your borough to see how we work locally, or call us on 03333 407493 if yours is not listed.
Related paving services
Block Paving Driveways
Patterned concrete or clay blocks on a compacted base. Smart, strong and repairable block by block.
Resin Bound Driveways
Stone and resin trowelled into a smooth, porous surface that drains naturally and looks sharp for years.
Driveway Drainage
Channel drains, soakaways and correct falls that keep water off your drive and away from your house.
Gravel Driveways
Natural-looking and permeable, built on a membrane with stabilising grids and edging so stones stay put.
Permeable Paving FAQs
Do I need planning permission if I use permeable paving?
In England, a permeable surface or one that drains within the property usually meets the front garden permitted development rules. Flats, conservation areas and some other cases have different rules. Check with your council if unsure.
Does permeable paving get blocked?
Surfaces can silt up if neglected. Keeping the surface clean and re-filling joints with the right material as needed keeps it working.
Does it work on clay soil?
London clay drains slowly, so we design the base to store water and may add an outlet. We explain this before quoting.
Is it more expensive?
It can cost more than a basic build because the base is deeper, but it may remove the need for a separate drainage system.
Free written quotes
Need permeable paving in London?
Call us or send your details for a free written quote.
Free quotes
Get your free written quote
Tell us about your driveway or paving project and we will come back with advice and a clear written quote. No pressure and no obligation.
- Free written quotes, no obligation
- Driveways and paving across all of London
- Fully insured, clear written pricing
- Prefer to talk? Call 03333 407493
Call us on 03333 407493 or email hello@paveprotech.co.uk.