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Costs & Value

How Much Does a New Driveway Cost?

Gravel, tarmac, block paving, and resin all differ in price, lifespan, and maintenance.

Words by Marco Delacroix · Oct 7, 2026 · 6 minutes

A new driveway adds kerb appeal and practical parking, but prices vary widely by material and site conditions.

Understanding the main cost drivers helps you compare quotes.

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Materials, from cheapest

  • ✿Gravel — usually cheapest, needs raking and topping up
  • ✿Tarmac — practical and durable
  • ✿Resin-bound — smooth, permeable finish
  • ✿Block paving — attractive and repairable
  • ✿Natural stone — premium look and price

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Hidden costs

Excavation and removal of the old surface, drainage, kerbs and edging, and dropped kerbs (which often need council approval) can add substantially to the price.

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Size and access

Larger driveways cost more overall but may be cheaper per square metre. Tight access that requires hand digging adds labour.

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Avoid driveway scams

Be wary of door-to-door offers to lay a driveway with leftover materials. Use established local firms with references and written quotes.

This is general landscaping and garden information, not professional advice. Costs, regulations, and plant suitability vary by location. Call before you dig to locate buried utilities, and consult a licensed landscaper or engineer for retaining walls, drainage, and structural work.

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