How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost in 2026? (UK)
A UK concrete driveway in 2026 costs £55-£110/m² fitted. A standard reinforced slab drive sits at £55-£75/m², pattern-imprinted concrete (PIC) at £80-£110/m², and polished or exposed-aggregate finishes from £95/m² up. For a typical 40m² driveway expect £2,800-£4,400, a 60m² £4,400-£6,600 and a 80m² £6,000-£8,800. Add £600-£2,500 if you need a new sub-base, drainage upgrade or SuDS-compliant soakaway. This guide gives the full 2026 ladder by size, finish, base prep and access.
Planning the work? Check what it usually costs, or work out your own estimate. The free quote form is at the top of this page.
Concrete Driveway Cost by Size & Finish
Standard reinforced slab (most common)
£55-£75/m². Mesh-reinforced 100mm slab on 150mm Type 1 sub-base. Brushed or float finish. The cheapest compliant option for a typical UK driveway.
Pattern-imprinted concrete (PIC)
£80-£110/m². Colour-hardened and imprinted with a stone or brick pattern. Sealed every 3-5 years. Premium kerb appeal at mid-range cost.
Exposed aggregate or polished
£95-£140/m². Decorative aggregate pre-mixed into the slab and washed back before set. Long-life finish, minimal upkeep, premium architectural look.
SuDS-compliant permeable concrete
£90-£130/m². No planning permission required for any size as it meets Sustainable Drainage rules. Required if you remove an existing impermeable surface and exceed 5m².
Base prep & drainage
£15-£35/m² if existing base is poor, £600-£2,500 for new drainage / soakaway. Always priced separately on quotes — confirm what is included.
Removal of existing surface
Tarmac £8-£14/m², block paving £12-£18/m², old concrete £18-£28/m². Skip and disposal £180-£320 typical.
Common Questions
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