What a good gravel drive includes
- A dug-out and compacted sub-base.
- A permeable membrane to keep layers separate.
- Grid panels that hold the gravel in cells.
- Angular stone, typically 10 to 20mm, that locks together.
- A solid threshold strip at the boundary with the footway.
Near trees
Gravel suits drives under or near trees, which is common around Bassleton and other leafy parts of Thornaby. Water and air still reach the roots, and a no-dig grid system can spread the load without cutting into root zones. Read trees and driveways.
In Thornaby Green
In conservation areas, gravel with a sett edge often looks more in keeping than plain concrete blocks or black tarmac. Planning permission may still be required where an Article 4 Direction covers front hard surfaces.
Costs
| Item | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Gravel drive | about £60 per m² |
| 30m² drive | about £1,800 |
Source: Checkatrade, April 2026. Grids add a little per m² but save on topping up and raking.
Living with gravel
Gravel crunches underfoot, which some people value for security. It is harder work for wheelchairs and buggies, though a grid helps a lot. Leaves are best blown off rather than raked.
Colours
Golden flint and Cotswold-style stones warm up red brick; grey granite suits render. Wet stone looks darker, so view samples both ways.
Common questions
Will the gravel end up on the pavement?
Not with a solid threshold strip and a grid.
Do weeds grow through?
A membrane keeps most out. The occasional weed lifts out easily.
Is gravel OK on a slope?
On gentle slopes, with a grid. Steeper drives need a bound surface.
Do I need planning permission?
Not usually, as gravel is permeable.