Posted: Mon Oct 21, 2013 11:08 pm
This query concerns the replacement of a concrete driveway (construction c.1965) from the garage to the main road. The house is above the main road and the main road itself is a steep hill. The drive is approx 7m x 2.5m (i.e.c.18 sq m) and has a fall from the garage to the road of approx 1 in 4.5 and and a fall across the drive from right to left at the bottom edge of c.1 in 7.
According to the guidance on the 'Planning portal' issued by the EA, a replacement drive must either be permeable or provide sufficient drainage of rainwater to allow it to drain naturally.
My question is whether a permeable driveway is to be considered as a possibility given the physical facts. My concerns are:
(1) Given the slopes (both down to the road and, at the lower end, across the width), would not most of the rainwater run off over the surface anyway?; and
(2) To the extent that any water does manage to seep below the paving blocks, would this not cause a gradual 'slippage' of the laying base and/or sub-base towards the bottom of the drive?
If permeable paving is an impractical solution, then the only alternative appears to be an impermeable drive plus drainage to a soakaway at the bottom - True or is there another choice?
NB: If this latter solution is followed then should I also provide details to the planning authorities and request a certificate of Proposed Lawfullness? (to avoid awkward questions by any solicitor in the event of selling the house).
Thank you.
DG
According to the guidance on the 'Planning portal' issued by the EA, a replacement drive must either be permeable or provide sufficient drainage of rainwater to allow it to drain naturally.
My question is whether a permeable driveway is to be considered as a possibility given the physical facts. My concerns are:
(1) Given the slopes (both down to the road and, at the lower end, across the width), would not most of the rainwater run off over the surface anyway?; and
(2) To the extent that any water does manage to seep below the paving blocks, would this not cause a gradual 'slippage' of the laying base and/or sub-base towards the bottom of the drive?
If permeable paving is an impractical solution, then the only alternative appears to be an impermeable drive plus drainage to a soakaway at the bottom - True or is there another choice?
NB: If this latter solution is followed then should I also provide details to the planning authorities and request a certificate of Proposed Lawfullness? (to avoid awkward questions by any solicitor in the event of selling the house).
Thank you.
DG