Price per square metre
| Surface | UK average per m² | 25m² | 35m² | 50m² |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gravel | £60 | £1,500 | £2,100 | £3,000 |
| Tarmac | £90 | £2,250 | £3,150 | £4,500 |
| Block paving | £100 | £2,500 | £3,500 | £5,000 |
| Resin-bound | £120 | £3,000 | £4,200 | £6,000 |
Source: Checkatrade driveway cost guide, April 2026. Figures are averages, not quotes.
The extras
- Breaking out old concrete or tarmac: labour and skip hire. Thick concrete takes longer.
- Sub-base depth: soft or clay ground needs more digging and more stone.
- Drainage: a channel drain and soakaway if the surface is not permeable.
- Edging and borders: often included, but check.
- Steps, walls and gates: priced separately.
- Dropped kerb: about £1,800 for a new crossing or £1,100 to widen, on 2026 UK averages (Checkatrade).
Worked examples
These use the averages above. Your quote will differ.
| Home | Job | Rough budget |
|---|---|---|
| Post-war semi, Roseberry | 30m² block paving in the front lawn, new crossing | £3,000 drive + about £1,800 crossing |
| 1960s semi, Low Grange | 35m² tarmac, crossing across a verge | £3,150 drive + crossing priced by the council |
| Detached, High Grange | Re-lay and widen to 50m² in resin, wider crossing | £6,000 drive + about £1,100 widening |
| Cottage, Wolviston | 20m² gravel with sett edge in a conservation area | £1,200 drive + any planning fee |
Comparing quotes
Ask each installer to state:
- the dig-out depth and sub-base thickness;
- the exact surface product and colour;
- the edging and how it is fixed;
- how water will drain;
- who is responsible for the crossing, and whether they hold the council's Opening Up licence if they are doing it.
A cheaper quote with a thin sub-base often costs more in the end.
Common questions
Why do quotes vary so much?
Mostly because of what is underneath: dig-out depth, sub-base and drainage.
Is VAT included?
Ask. Some quotes are given ex-VAT.
Does a bigger drive cost less per m²?
Usually, because set-up costs are spread across more area.
Should I pay a deposit?
A modest deposit for materials is common. Avoid paying the full amount upfront.