Three layouts that make sense
Single parking bay and a separate path
Keep the pedestrian route clear of vehicle doors and wheel tracks. The simplest design can use one surface with a contrasting edge for wayfinding.
Two wheel strips with planted or gravel centre
On a suitable plot, the vehicle tracks can be the durable focus while some of the ground remains soft or free-draining. Verify the full foundation and accessibility before choosing this layout.
Full-width parking with planted margins
Where two cars must park side by side, low planting can frame the driveway, while a durable edging contains the material and protects the borders.
First check the entrance
You may need approval for a new or widened dropped kerb over a public footway. The driveway layout should not rely on a vehicle crossing an unapproved section of pavement.
Then check the rainwater
In England, front garden surfacing rules depend on permeability and runoff. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different arrangements. Start with the planning guide and your local authority.
Don't design around the photograph alone
Measure the vehicle, walking access, thresholds, bin storage and sightlines. A beautiful pattern can be adjusted; a driveway that blocks safe access is harder to fix.
What might the conversion cost?
New front-garden parking can involve excavation, a new foundation, drainage and a dropped-kerb application on top of the finish. Use our estimator to compare four surface budgets while treating permissions and site access separately.
Common questions
Can I pave my entire front garden?
Sometimes, subject to local planning, permeability and drainage requirements. Check the rules for the relevant UK nation and your property.
Does a new driveway include a dropped kerb?
A dropped kerb is a separate highway-approval issue and may not be included in the surfacing contract.
Sources and important notes
Published 2 November 2026. The figures are broad UK examples for ordinary installations; they are not fixed contractor prices and do not account for every site condition.