Driveway Groundworks

Driveways need to drain surface water. Soakaways are often used where connection to the main drain is not possible or preferred. We install soakaways to design with the correct size and connections.

A dropped kerb allows vehicles to cross the pavement to the driveway. Consent is usually needed from the highway authority. We can construct the dropped kerb once consent is in place, or we can advise on the process.

The sub-base distributes load and prevents settlement. Depth depends on traffic (car vs HGV) and ground conditions. Typically 100–150 mm of type 1 for domestic; more for heavy vehicles. We build to the correct depth and compact in layers.

Resin-bound surfacing needs a stable, drained sub-base like any other driveway. We deliver the groundworks — excavation, sub-base and drainage — so your resin contractor can lay the surface on a sound base.

Block paving needs a well-compacted sub-base and a laying course (sand or fine aggregate). We deliver the excavation, sub-base and laying course so your block paving can be laid on a stable base that will not settle.

Tarmac driveways need a compacted sub-base and drainage. We deliver the excavation, sub-base and any drainage so the tarmac layer can be laid on a stable base. We can work with your tarmac contractor or deliver a full package.

Gravel driveways need a compacted sub-base and edging to contain the gravel. We deliver the excavation, sub-base and edging so the gravel can be laid and will not migrate or sink.

Driveway drainage may connect to the main surface water drain (with consent) or go to a soakaway. Planning and building control may have conditions. We advise on the options and install to the approved design.

Driveways on slopes need careful levelling, drainage and sometimes retaining or steps. We deliver the groundworks to create a stable, drained surface that works with the gradient.

Where a driveway crosses a ditch or stream, a culvert is needed. The design must allow for flow and often needs consent. We install culverts to design and reinstate the driveway over them.

A double driveway needs a wider area and often a stronger sub-base where two vehicles may park. We deliver the groundworks for the full width with sub-base and drainage to support the load.

A membrane under the sub-base separates it from the subsoil and can act as a weed barrier. It helps prevent contamination and vegetation growth. We install membrane as part of the driveway build where specified.

Edge restraint holds the driveway surface in place. Block paving and gravel need a firm edge. We install kerbs, edging or restraint as part of the groundworks so the surface does not spread or sink at the edges.

Frost can heave and damage driveways if the sub-base is too shallow or poorly drained. We build with adequate depth and drainage so the driveway resists frost in UK winters.

Replacing an existing driveway involves stripping the old surface and sub-base, then building new groundworks and surfacing. We strip out, dispose of arisings and build the new base and drainage.

Many driveways are permitted development; some need planning permission (e.g. front gardens in sensitive areas, or where conditions apply). We do not advise on planning law; we build once you have the necessary permissions.

Shared driveways serve more than one property. Groundworks must be strong enough for the traffic and often need agreement with neighbours. We deliver the groundworks to the required width and strength.

A turning circle allows vehicles to turn without reversing onto the road. It needs a larger area and a sub-base that can take turning loads. We deliver the groundworks for the full turning area.

Driveways for EV charging need the same solid base and drainage as any driveway. Cable runs for the charge point may need ducts under the driveway. We deliver the groundworks and can install ducts for the electrician.

Driveway gullies collect surface water and connect to the drainage system. We install gullies at the correct positions and fall, and connect them to the soakaway or main drain as per the design.

Type 1 (or DTp1) is the standard sub-base material for driveways. It is a well-graded crushed stone that compacts to a stable base. We supply and compact Type 1 in layers to the required depth and density.