Average monthly searches for converting front gardens into driveways have surged by 281% in the past year, as more households look to carve out extra parking space at home.
At the same time, there are now 42.4 million licensed vehicles on UK roads and more than a third of households in England own two or more cars, piling pressure on already crowded residential streets. Hard landscaping specialists, Stoneworld warn that without proper planning and drainage, this rush to create front‑garden driveways could unintentionally increase surface water issues and leave homeowners facing planning or compliance problems.
Speaking on the findings, Ellie Parker, expert at Stoneworld, said: “As more households look to create additional parking, front gardens are often seen as an easy solution. However, changes like this need to be carefully designed.
“Without appropriate drainage or planning considerations, homeowners may unintentionally increase surface water issues or run into compliance problems. Understanding the regulations early can help avoid complications later on.”
Ellie then went on to share the common mistakes people make when turning a front garden into a driveway.
Ignoring planning rules: Paving over a front garden isn’t always permitted, particularly when impermeable materials are used and water is directed towards the road. In many cases, using permeable surfaces such as natural stone setts, permeable block paving, gravel or resin‑bound stone or ensuring rainwater drains into a lawn, border or soakaway can help homeowners stay within planning rules.
No drainage plan: Without proper drainage, new driveways can cause rainwater to run straight into street drains, increasing pressure on local infrastructure. Designs that manage water on site, such as permeable sub-bases, gravel margins or discreet drainage channels are increasingly recommended.
Choosing the wrong surface: Some popular driveway materials prevent water from soaking into the ground, which can worsen surface water build-up during heavy rainfall. Choosing a permeable surface, such as natural stone block paving or resin‑bound stone, helps rainwater soak in rather than pool on the surface.
Paving everything: Completely covering a front garden removes natural areas that would otherwise absorb rainfall and soften the appearance of a property. Leaving space for planting, trees or borders can help manage water and is something garden and flood experts now frequently advise.
Skipping the dropped kerb: Using a driveway without an approved vehicle crossover can damage pavements and attract enforcement action from councils. Homeowners are usually required to apply for a dropped kerb before vehicles are driven across the pavement.
Ellie concluded by saying: “With more households adapting their homes to changing travel and parking needs, front garden driveways are likely to remain popular.
“The key is making sure changes are planned properly, using materials and designs that work with the local environment rather than against it. Small decisions made early on can make a big difference to how well a driveway performs long term.”
