Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?

If the driveway is over 5 square metres and uses impermeable materials (block paving without drainage, solid tarmac), you may need planning permission. Using permeable paving or including soakaway drainage avoids this requirement.

How long does block paving last?

Quality block paving typically lasts 25–30+ years with proper installation and drainage. Over time, joints may need re-sanding and weeds managed, but the blocks themselves are very durable.

Do I need permission to remove a tree?

If a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is in a conservation area, you must get permission from your local council before any pruning or removal. Removing a protected tree without consent can result in significant fines.

What is the cheapest type of driveway?

Gravel is the most affordable option at £20–£40 per square metre installed. Tarmac costs £40–£70/m², block paving £60–£100/m², and resin-bound surfacing £50–£80/m². The right choice depends on appearance, durability, and drainage requirements.

B postcode area

Find trusted Garden Designer professionals in B

B covers areas including Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Redditch. Compare garden designer quotes with clearer local context for travel, access, materials, parking, and property constraints.

What to include in your garden designer quote request

Ask for excavation depths, sub-base build-up, drainage assumptions, and spoil removal in writing.
Confirm whether plants, turf, lighting, and irrigation are included or listed as optional extras.
Get the exact paving, timber, or fencing specification so cheaper quotes are not using thinner materials.
Request weather allowances and maintenance handover details before appointing a landscaper.
Confirm the postcode district, parking restrictions, access route, and preferred working hours.

Red flags before hiring

No written detail on excavation depth, sub-base, drainage, or spoil disposal.
Material descriptions that stay vague on thickness, grade, or treatment level.
Large deposits requested before measurements, levels, or boundary assumptions are agreed.
Claims that weather and access constraints 'won't affect price' on exposed external work.
Quotes that ignore access, waste, permits, or travel time across the B area.

Garden Designer quote pages by B district

District pages keep postcode SEO useful without generating thin full-postcode pages.

Garden Designer in B31

Northfield

Garden Designer in B90

Shirley, Wythall, Majors Green, Dickens Heath

Garden Designer in B77

Tamworth

Garden Designer in B91

Olton, Solihull

Garden Designer in B60

Bromsgrove

Garden Designer in B70

West Bromwich

Garden Designer in B23

Erdington, Short Heath

Garden Designer in B98

Redditch

Garden Designer in B29

Selly Oak, Bournbrook, Selly Park, Weoley Castle, California

Garden Designer in B97

Redditch

Garden Designer in B63

Halesowen

Garden Designer in B14

Kings Heath, Yardley Wood, Brandwood, Druids Heath, Warstock