Front gardens get more protection from concrete
7 October 2008
In new Government legislation announced on 1 October 2008, it will be more difficult for homeowners to pave or concrete over front gardens.
Changes to the General Permitted Development Order allows the hard surfacing of more than 5 sq m (6 sq yd) of domestic front garden only when permeable material is used. Use of traditional materials, such as impermeable concrete, will need an application for planning permission.
Leigh Hunt, Principal Horticultural Advisor at the RHS, explains, "The RHS is thrilled that the Government is acting on this issue. Gardens are the lifeblood of the urban environment. Without them, rainwater struggles to drain away and can cause flooding; wildlife becomes stranded in small green oasis, unable to cross the surrounding sea of concrete; urban temperatures rise in summer as paving acts like a storage heater, soaking up the sun’s energy and giving it off at night – which is worrying given climate change predications. So thankfully, at last, gardens are being seen as valuable environmental commodities that need our protection."
There are plenty of alternatives to concrete for homeowners who want to create a parking space in the front garden. Gravel, permeable paving blocks, reinforced grass and matrix pavers are all sound options, and may even be cheaper than concrete.
Leigh Hunt continues, "To concrete over a terrace front garden, measuring an average of 24 sq m (28.8 sq yd), would cost the homeowner in excess of £2,500*. However if they decided to gravel or pave over half of the area with permeable material, to create a parking space, and plant up the rest of it with wildlife-friendly plants, then they could save hundreds of pounds – even more if they decide to do the work themselves."
The RHS Gardening Matters: Front Gardens booklet offers practical solutions and useful illustrations to help homeowners make the most of their front garden.
Download a copy of Gardening Matters: Front Gardens here
* Costings based on 2008 quotes
- To clear and concrete over a front garden in London measuring 24 sq (28.8 sq yd) it would cost the homeowner a minimum of £2,500. Local builder based in Streatham, London.
- Gravel - £135 for a bag that will cover 18 sq m (21.6 sq yd).
- Permeable weed-free membrane (to lay under gravel) - £54 for a roll 2x50m (2.5x167ft).
- Top soil - £83 per tonne bag to cover 15 sq m (18 sq yd) to a depth of 5cm (2in).
- Permeable bloc paving (including installation): e.g. Marshalls Priora product, between £120-125 per square metre.
- Plants – average £100 for - ground cover rose (x2), firethorn (x2), weeping pussy willow tree (x1), ornamental sage (x2) and cinquefoil (x6).