Things you need to know before starting driveway extension

Dream home right? Sweeping driveway up to the front door, beautifully manicured gardens to each side and enough parking for your household and guests. If you’re lucky enough to have enough space to accommodate all this then let's give you a few pointers before you start your new project.

1. How many cars are in your household?

Turning your front garden into off road parking spaces will undoubtedly be more convenient for you and your family but also has the potential to add value to your home. You may not need to convert your entire garden into a parking area. It will all depend on how much space you have and how many cars you have in your household.

2. Gravel or Paving?

Gravel driveways are a highly affordable surface option while paved driveways offer a strong flat surface that is easier to maintain in winter and convenient to park on all your round.  

3. Planning Permission?

A bit of good news - in most cases, you will be able to create or extend your driveway without planning permission if the new or replacement driveway uses permeable (or pouros) surfacing which allows surface water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block or porous asphalt. The rainwater can also be directed to a lawn border to drain away naturally.

4. Check for permitted development.

It is always advisable to check with your local council before any work starts even if you have permitted development rights, or contact the STAAC team and we will do it for you.

5. What is your neighbourhood like?

When (or if) it comes to selling your remember that the value of your home is partly determined by the surrounding environment and it is important that your home conforms to environmental standards. Keeping the front of your home looking it’s best will make it easier to sell.

6. Don’t forget the dropped kerb.

Again, contact your local council before you start - this will save you money in the long run. Demolition of the kerb will be required in order for you to drive your cars safely onto your new drive. It will also deter other road users from parking across your access! There will be a fee for the demolition.

7. Can your new drive add value to your property?

If you decide to sell the house, off road parking certainly won’t devalue your home! A driveway will give you a return at least for the cost of setting it up, but, in most cases, you will get much more in return. The price will vary depending on the aesthetics, material, width, and the effort put into the driveway.

Please contact us for more information and any advice or help you need.

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