Block Paving Driveways in Totnes and the South Hams: A Practical Guide

Block paving has been the most popular driveway surface in the UK for decades, and in the South Hams — covering towns like Totnes, Kingsbridge, Dartmouth and the villages in between — it’s easy to see why it keeps that position.

It’s adaptable. It suits period stone cottages in Totnes just as well as newer detached homes in Kingsbridge or Ivybridge. The range of block colours, textures and laying patterns means you can create something that feels genuinely specific to your property rather than just a standard grey slab.

If you’re weighing up whether block paving is the right choice for your driveway, this guide covers the practical things that matter.

Why Block Paving Works So Well in the South Hams

The South Hams has a varied mix of property types — from traditional Devon longhouses and period townhouses in Totnes and Kingsbridge, to modern builds in developments around South Brent, Ivybridge and the surrounding villages. Block paving accommodates all of them.

The other factor that makes block paving particularly well-suited to Devon is the ground. Parts of the South Hams can experience ground movement over time, and the interlocking nature of block paving means that if one section shifts or settles, individual blocks can be lifted and relevelled without replacing the whole surface. That’s not possible with tarmac or concrete.

Block Paving Design Options

Modern block paving comes in a far wider range of styles than most people expect when they start researching. The main decisions are:

• Colour — from natural buff and sandstone tones to charcoal, red and blended multi-colour options
• Texture — smooth, tumbled (a slightly aged, irregular look), or riven (which mimics the appearance of natural stone)
• Size — standard blocks, large format slabs, or a mix of sizes to create more complex patterns
• Laying pattern — herringbone, basketweave, stretcher bond and circular feature patterns are all popular

For properties in Totnes and the older parts of Kingsbridge and Dartmouth, tumbled blocks in warm buff or sandstone tones tend to complement the existing stonework well. For newer properties, a charcoal or silver-grey block in a clean stretcher bond gives a contemporary finish that works with render and brick.

How Much Does Block Paving Cost in the South Hams?

Block paving costs in Devon typically range from around £45 to £80 per square metre for a fully installed, properly prepared driveway. The variation comes down to:

• The block type and brand chosen — there’s a significant quality and price range
• The amount of groundworks required — particularly if the existing surface needs full removal
• Whether the driveway has a complex shape, steps or drainage features that require more labour
• The distance from our base and access constraints on the day

A standard single driveway of around 20 to 25 square metres in the Totnes or Kingsbridge area would typically come in at around £1,500 to £2,500 fully installed. A larger double driveway of 50 square metres might run from £3,000 to £4,000.

These are genuine working estimates rather than guarantees — every job is priced individually based on a site survey.

Does Block Paving Need Planning Permission?

Standard block paving laid on a permeable or free-draining base does not require planning permission for a front garden driveway. Most block paving installations fall within permitted development rights, provided the water drains into a soakaway or garden rather than directly onto the road.

If you’re in a conservation area — Totnes town centre and parts of Kingsbridge fall within designated areas — there may be additional restrictions on materials and colours. We can advise on this during a site visit.

How Long Does Block Paving Last?

A well-installed block paving driveway should last 20 to 30 years or more. The blocks themselves are extremely durable — it’s usually the jointing sand or the sub-base that determines long-term performance rather than the blocks.

Over time, weeds can establish in the joints, and the jointing sand can wash out. Both are manageable with periodic maintenance — a jet wash and re-sanding every few years keeps a block paving driveway looking good for the long term.

Working with RM Driveways in Totnes and the South Hams

We cover the South Hams extensively — from Totnes and South Brent through to Kingsbridge, Dartmouth, Modbury and the surrounding villages. We’re a local team who understands the type of properties in this area and what works well aesthetically and practically.

Get in touch on 01364 712353 to arrange a free site visit. We’ll come out, take measurements, talk through design options and give you a fixed-price quote with no obligation.