A current block-paving benchmark and the groundwork details that decide whether a driveway lasts.
Applies to: UK homes; site preparation, drainage and block choice vary. · Last checked: 4 October 2026
Key points
• Checkatrade’s April 2026 guide gives about £100 per m² as a block-paving total benchmark.
• Its 50m² example is about £5,000.
• Excavation, sub-base, drainage and edge restraints should be explicit.
Getting ready to arrange the work?
Search BuildPair for tradespeople who offer the services you need. Check profiles and discuss the details before agreeing to any work.
Current benchmark
Checkatrade’s April 2026 driveway guide gives block paving at about £100 per m² total and a 50m² two-car example around £5,000. These are ballpark market figures.
Build-up matters
• Excavation and formation level.
• Compacted sub-base depth.
• Bedding layer.
• Edge restraints.
• Block type and laying pattern.
• Jointing and final compaction.
Drainage first
Set the drainage strategy before choosing the prettiest block. Falls, channels and permeability can affect both performance and whether planning rules are engaged.
Sources and methodology
Pricing figures are third-party UK market budgeting references, not BuildPair prices or guaranteed local quotes. Legal and safety points are linked to current official guidance. Check the current source and your project circumstances before acting.
Related BuildPair guides
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, gas, electrical or building-control approval. Requirements and prices vary by location, property and scope.
One project. Both sides connected.
A fairer UK marketplace and project platform for homeowners and tradespeople, from first search to finished job.
BuildPair is a marketplace and project platform, not a building contractor or building-control body. See Payments, Terms and Disclaimer for full details.