Choosing the right driveway surface has become increasingly complex for UK homeowners, particularly since the introduction of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations in 2008. With planning permission now required for non-permeable driveways over 5 square metres, understanding the differences between resin bound and tarmac surfaces—and their compliance with drainage requirements—has never been more important. This comprehensive guide explores how these two popular driveway options measure up against current UK regulations, helping you make an informed decision that balances aesthetics, functionality, and legal compliance.
Understanding SuDS Regulations for UK Driveways
The Sustainable Drainage Systems regulations, implemented across England and Wales, fundamentally changed how homeowners approach driveway installations. These regulations aim to reduce surface water runoff, which can overwhelm drainage systems and contribute to localised flooding—a growing concern in urban areas like Birmingham, Manchester, and London.
Under current legislation, any new or replacement driveway exceeding 5 square metres requires either:
- Installation of a permeable surface that allows water to soak through naturally
- Direction of runoff water to a lawn or border area that can absorb it
- Installation of a soakaway system to manage water drainage
- Planning permission if none of the above options are implemented
Local authorities across the UK take these regulations seriously, with councils in flood-prone areas such as Hull, Carlisle, and parts of Somerset being particularly vigilant. Non-compliance can result in enforcement action, requiring costly remedial work or even complete driveway replacement.
Resin Bound Driveways: The SuDS-Compliant Solution
Resin bound surfaces have emerged as the gold standard for SuDS compliance, offering a perfect blend of permeability and aesthetic appeal. This innovative surfacing solution consists of natural aggregate mixed with clear resin, creating a smooth, porous surface that allows water to drain through at rates exceeding 850 litres per square metre per minute.
Key Benefits for Drainage Compliance
- Full permeability: Water passes directly through the surface into a sub-base designed to manage drainage
- No planning permission required: When installed correctly, resin bound driveways automatically comply with SuDS regulations
- Reduced flood risk: Helps prevent localised flooding by managing surface water at source
- Environmental benefits: Allows natural groundwater recharge and reduces burden on storm drains
The installation process involves laying a porous base course, typically using open-graded aggregate, which creates voids for water storage and gradual infiltration. This system works particularly well in areas with good natural drainage, such as properties in the Cotswolds or South Downs, where underlying chalk provides excellent permeability.
Cost Considerations
Whilst resin bound driveways typically cost between £50-£100 per square metre in most UK regions, the elimination of planning permission requirements and additional drainage systems often makes them cost-competitive with traditional alternatives. For a standard 40 square metre driveway in areas like Leeds or Bristol, homeowners can expect to invest £2,000-£4,000, with prices varying based on ground preparation requirements and chosen aggregate types.
Tarmac Driveways: Traditional but Challenging for Compliance
Tarmac remains one of the UK’s most popular driveway surfaces, particularly in Scotland and Northern England where its durability against harsh weather is highly valued. However, standard tarmac is completely impermeable, creating significant challenges for SuDS compliance.
Drainage Challenges with Standard Tarmac
- Zero permeability: Water cannot penetrate the surface, requiring alternative drainage solutions
- Planning permission often required: Unless water is directed to permeable areas
- Additional drainage costs: May need installation of channels, soakaways, or connection to storm drains
- Increased flood risk: Contributes to rapid runoff during heavy rainfall events
For homeowners in urban areas like Glasgow, Newcastle, or Cardiff, where space for additional drainage features may be limited, standard tarmac can present significant compliance challenges. The cost of obtaining planning permission (typically £206 for householder applications in England) plus potential drainage modifications can add £500-£1,500 to project costs.
Permeable Tarmac Options
Recent innovations have produced permeable tarmac variants that offer improved drainage characteristics. These products, whilst more expensive than standard tarmac at £35-£60 per square metre, provide a middle ground between traditional tarmac aesthetics and SuDS compliance. However, their drainage rates typically reach only 150-300 litres per square metre per minute—significantly lower than resin bound alternatives.
Comparative Analysis: Performance and Compliance
When evaluating resin bound versus tarmac driveways through the lens of SuDS compliance, several key factors emerge:
Drainage Performance
Resin Bound: Superior drainage capabilities with rates exceeding 850 litres/m²/minute make this the clear winner for SuDS compliance. Properties in high-rainfall areas like the Lake District or Welsh valleys particularly benefit from this exceptional drainage capacity.
Tarmac: Standard tarmac offers no drainage capability, whilst permeable variants provide limited improvement. Even premium permeable tarmac struggles to match the drainage performance of basic resin bound systems.
Installation Complexity
Resin Bound: Requires skilled installation by certified contractors, with proper sub-base preparation critical for maintaining permeability. The installation process typically takes 2-3 days for an average driveway.
Tarmac: Quicker installation (often completed in one day) but may require additional time for drainage solutions. Planning permission applications can add 8-12 weeks to project timelines.
Long-term Maintenance
Resin Bound: Minimal maintenance required, with occasional power washing to prevent pore blockage. Annual inspection recommended to ensure continued permeability, particularly in areas with heavy leaf fall like Surrey or Hampshire.
Tarmac: Requires periodic resealing every 3-5 years. Drainage channels and soakaways need regular cleaning to maintain effectiveness, adding to long-term maintenance costs.
Regional Considerations Across the UK
Different regions of the UK present unique challenges and opportunities for driveway selection:
Scotland and Northern England
Harsh winters and freeze-thaw cycles favour durable surfaces. Whilst tarmac has traditionally dominated markets in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Newcastle, resin bound surfaces with appropriate aggregate selection now offer comparable durability with superior drainage.
London and Southeast England
High property values and strict planning controls make SuDS-compliant solutions particularly attractive. Resin bound driveways in areas like Richmond, Guildford, and Brighton often add significant property value whilst avoiding planning complications.
Wales and Southwest England
High rainfall levels in Cardiff, Swansea, and Plymouth make superior drainage essential. Resin bound surfaces excel in these conditions, managing heavy precipitation without overwhelming local drainage infrastructure.
Making the Right Choice: Decision Factors
Selecting between resin bound and tarmac requires careful consideration of multiple factors:
- Budget: Whilst resin bound typically costs more initially, avoided planning fees and drainage installations can equalise overall costs
- Property type: Listed buildings or conservation areas may have additional restrictions favouring certain materials
- Soil conditions: Clay soils with poor drainage may require additional sub-base work regardless of surface choice
- Future plans: Consider whether you might extend the driveway beyond 5 square metres in future
- Environmental priorities: Homeowners prioritising sustainability typically favour fully permeable solutions
Professional Installation and Compliance Verification
Regardless of chosen surface, professional installation by accredited contractors ensures SuDS compliance. Look for installers registered with trade bodies such as the Resin Bonded Slab Company Association or the Asphalt Industry Alliance. Reputable contractors in major cities like Birmingham, Liverpool, and Sheffield should provide:
- Written confirmation of SuDS compliance
- Detailed specifications of drainage rates achieved
- Warranty covering both surface and drainage performance
- Documentation for building control if required
Always obtain multiple quotes and verify contractors’ previous work, particularly their experience with SuDS-compliant installations in your local area.
Conclusion
The choice between resin bound and tarmac driveways has evolved beyond simple aesthetic preferences to encompass critical regulatory compliance issues. Whilst tarmac remains viable with appropriate drainage solutions, resin bound surfaces offer the most straightforward path to SuDS compliance, eliminating planning permission requirements and providing superior long-term drainage performance. For UK homeowners navigating increasingly stringent environmental regulations, resin bound driveways represent a future-proof investment that balances legal compliance, environmental responsibility, and kerb appeal. As climate change intensifies rainfall events across the UK, choosing a truly permeable surface isn’t just about following regulations—it’s about contributing to sustainable urban drainage and protecting your property investment for years to come.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a resin bound driveway?
No, you don’t need planning permission for a resin bound driveway as long as it’s installed with a permeable sub-base that allows water to drain through naturally. This applies to driveways of any size, making resin bound surfaces fully compliant with SuDS regulations. However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you should check with your local council for any additional restrictions.
How much more expensive is resin bound compared to tarmac?
Resin bound driveways typically cost £50-£100 per square metre, whilst standard tarmac costs £25-£50 per square metre. However, when you factor in the cost of planning permission (£206) and additional drainage solutions (£500-£1,500) often required for tarmac, the price difference narrows considerably. For a 40m² driveway, resin bound might only be £500-£1,000 more expensive overall.
Can existing tarmac driveways be made SuDS compliant?
Yes, existing tarmac driveways can be made SuDS compliant by installing drainage channels that direct water to permeable areas like lawns or borders, or by adding soakaway systems. Alternatively, you can overlay the tarmac with a permeable resin bound surface, though this requires proper preparation and may raise the driveway level by 15-20mm.
How long do resin bound driveways last compared to tarmac?
Both surfaces offer excellent longevity when properly installed. Resin bound driveways typically last 15-25 years with minimal maintenance, whilst tarmac driveways can last 15-20 years but require resealing every 3-5 years. The key difference is that resin bound surfaces maintain their permeability throughout their lifespan, whilst tarmac may develop cracks that affect both appearance and any installed drainage systems.
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