I don’t know if this is a national phenomenon but here in Chelmsford it seems like new block paving driveways are multiplying like rabbits! Here at Westacott Gardens we don’t specialise in driveways but often take them on as part of larger projects. Block paving is a great driveway solution, it goes down quickly, is cost effective and can look really good. We’ve used it on several projects and with a bit of imagination it can fit in with many styles of garden.
However it isn’t the only option and in a lot of cases an alternative material would suit the property and the front garden better. 
Perhaps it’s the proliferation of driveway specialists that make block paving an easy option, the idea of getting a relatively cheap driveway down in a short time is certainly attractive. But a driveway and the surrounding areas are something you have to look at every day. So it’s worth giving other options some thought and perhaps enlisting the help of someone who can broaden the view and look at materials that could better tie in with your property.
These options could include paving, gravel, setts or a host of other choices. Paving offers a range of looks and colours and if the right stone is selected and the right base put in the resulting drive will look great and last for years. A gravel drive is great for security with vehicles making noise as they roll down the drive. And with a combination of other materials for edging and maybe a solution like nidalgravel to keep the gravel in place it makes an attractive option. Granite setts have been used for decades as a tough driveway material and again in right setting can look brilliant. Those are just three of a host of options that make a break from block paving and a break from having to weed out the gaps in a few years time!
The other advantage to looking at your drive from a wider pint of view is considering the areas around it. Whilst looking at the drive its worth considering what could be done to the rest of the front garden to improve the approach to the house. A good looking front garden and drive is a real asset and will add value to a property. So it’s worth considering rejuvenating the planting or paths that sit around the drive. Hopefully this might prompt you to consider alternatives to block paving, they can be a great solution but they aren’t the only answer. On a final note if you are considering a new driveway or frontage don’t forget there are new regulations concerning drainage and planning permission must now be sought in many cases. If you need any more information on this subject please do not hesitate to contact us.
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