Permeable Resin Driveways

Understanding SUDS Regulations

In 2008, the UK government introduced Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) regulations to combat street flooding caused by everyone paving over their front gardens with non-porous concrete and block paving.

The rules are simple: if you install a new driveway over 5 square metres, and the water runs off it into the public highway or drains, you must apply for planning permission.

However, if your driveway is made of a permeable material that allows water to soak naturally into the ground, you do not need planning permission.

Why Resin Bound is the Solution

Resin bound surfaces are naturally porous. Water flows right through the tiny voids between the stones.

When we install a full dig-out driveway, we use an open-graded sub-base (like MOT Type 3) and a porous asphalt binder course. This creates a fully permeable stack from top to bottom, satisfying all SUDS regulations instantly.