What is “Permeable Paving”

Permeable pavement is an alternative to conventional paving in which water filters through the paved structure rather than running off it. Both the surface and the sub-grade need to be designed with this function in mind. Water may infiltrate directly into the subsoil where conditions are suitable. Alternatively, it can be held in a reservoir structure under the paving for reuse, infiltration or delayed discharge. The permeable paving can be gravel, concrete or plastic webbing, concrete blocks designed for the purpose or porous asphalt.

Overflows can be constructed on all these systems wherever surfaces must be kept free of water at all times or where the base needs to be sealed to protect the aquifer. Even if the overflow operates, storage and filtering of the runoff water has occurred, and environmental benefits accrue. The overflow can lead into a permeable conveyance system to increase further the benefit and reduce the need for pipe systems.

Block Paving Planning Permission

From 1st October 2008 the permitted development rights that allow householders to pave their front garden for hardstanding without planning permission changed. Planning permission is now required to lay traditional impermeable driveways that allow uncontrolled runoff of rainwater from front gardens onto roads, because this can contribute to flooding and pollution of water courses.

If a new driveway or parking area is constructed using permeable surfaces, such as permeable concrete block paving, or if the water is otherwise able to soak into the ground you will not require planning permission. The new rules will also apply where existing hardstandings are being replaced. The new rules apply to hard surfaces exceeding 5m²

Achieving a well balanced driveway design within the guidelines of the legislation need not be complicated. You simply need to decide how you would like to manage the rainwater that lands on your driveway. If your planned driveway exceeds 5m² you have three options available to you:

Planning Permission Information

Option 1 - No Planning Permission Required: Direct rainwater to a flower bed or another area of the garden which has been designed to allow water to drain away.

This is the most common option taken and involves using linear drainage systems or a driveway channel. It may also involve installing a soakaway underneath part of your lawn.
Option 2 - No Planning Permission Required: Use permeable paving to allow water to filter through the driveway and drain harmlessly away in the ground below.

Permeable paving allows surface water to pass between the blocks into a specially calculated sub-base, which allows the water to drain away in a slow and measured way.
Option 3 - Planning Permission Required: Do not make any provision for the rain water that falls on your driveway.

To obtain the necessary planning permission you will need to contact your local planning department.

There is a fee (usually around £150) to submit a planning application and can take around 8 weeks for a decision to be made.

We are sorry but Davey Driveways do not offer advice on seeking planning permission or to submit an application on your behalf.

Permeable Paving

What is “Permeable Paving”

Block Paving Planning Permission

Request Ringback

Accreditations