Read below for our advice on planning for a driveway.

At DKP, we specialise exclusively in planning applications for drivways, helping homeowners navigate the often complicated planning process to ensure their driveway projects run smoothly. Understanding planning regulations, permitted development rights and local authority procedures can seem overwhelming, but with our expert guidance, securing approval becomes straightforward and stress-free.

In England, not all driveway projects require planning permission. Many fall under permitted development rights, provided certain criteria are met:

• The driveway surface must be permeable, such as gravel, permeable concrete blocks, resin-bound surfacing, or porous asphalt.
• Non-permeable surfaces exceeding 5 square metres must include suitable drainage to manage surface water run-off within your property boundary.
• Works must not involve raising ground levels.

However, full planning permission is generally required if:

• Your property is listed or located within a conservation area.
• The proposed driveway involves changes to walls, fences, or gates exceeding 1m in height next to a public highway.
• Your design involves non-permeable surfaces without adequate drainage provisions.

At DKP, we begin by assessing your property’s specific circumstances, ensuring clarity from the outset about whether a planning application is necessary.

If your driveway project requires planning permission, thorough preparation is essential. Councils typically request:

• Detailed Site Plans: Accurate, scaled drawings illustrating the proposed driveway dimensions, surface materials, boundary details, and relationship to nearby roads and properties.
• Drainage Information: Clearly outlined plans demonstrating how surface water run-off will be managed effectively. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) must usually be detailed.
• Design and Access Statements (if required): Particularly relevant in conservation areas, these documents justify how your driveway design aligns with local planning policies and neighbourhood character.

At DKP, we meticulously compile all documentation, ensuring your submission meets every local requirement first time, significantly reducing the likelihood of delays or requests for additional information.

Once submitted, your application will pass through several stages:

1. Validation: Council planning officers confirm your application meets submission criteria. Missing information at this stage can cause delays.
2. Consultation Period: Neighbours and statutory consultees like the highways authority provide feedback. Any concerns raised must be addressed promptly.
3. Decision-making: Typically concluded within 8 weeks for standard household applications.

Our proactive approach ensures continuous engagement with the council throughout the process, swiftly addressing queries, objections, or additional requests to ensure timely approval.

Driveway planning applications can encounter several common hurdles:

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing or inadequate drainage details are frequent reasons for refusal. DKP ensures comprehensive drainage strategies, satisfying all SuDS requirements.
• Incorrect Surface Choices: Selecting non-permeable surfaces without adequate drainage is a common mistake. DKP advises you from the outset, recommending compliant and practical solutions.
• Failure to Meet Local Design Policies: Ignoring local guidelines, particularly in conservation areas, can quickly lead to refusals. DKP’s thorough policy knowledge ensures your design meets the criteria (as best as possible).

• Focused Expertise: Specialising exclusively in driveway planning applications, DKP offers unparalleled expertise in this niche planning area.
• Comprehensive Management: From initial assessments to final approvals, DKP manages every aspect of your planning application.
• High Approval Rates: Our meticulous approach consistently secures successful outcomes, typically on the first submission.

Considering a new driveway and unsure about planning permission? DKP is here to provide clarity and confidence. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation, and let our expert team handle your driveway planning application professionally and efficiently.

Plan your driveway with confidence—plan it right with DKP.