Worth Doing It Properly
The clay-heavy soils across much of the GU11 area can cause significant ground movement that undermines poorly constructed driveways, and a professional contractor who understands local ground conditions will specify the correct sub-base depth and drainage approach before any surface material is selected.
The area is a town in Hampshire, South East England, administered by Rushmoor Borough Council. The postcode districts covering the area are GU11, GU12. Nearby areas include Farnham, Farnborough, Fleet, Guildford. The sub-base beneath any driveway surface determines its long-term performance — a minimum 100–150mm compacted Type 1 MOT stone base is the standard specification for residential driveways.
Sub-base and Installation Standards in Aldershot GU11
Clay shrinks and swells with moisture changes, causing ground movement that cracks and deforms driveways laid without adequate excavation and a properly compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base. A minimum of 150mm of compacted Type 1 beneath a block-paved or tarmac surface is the standard specification in clay areas — contractors who quote on this basis are taking the soil conditions seriously. Those who propose shallower excavation should be asked to explain why the reduced depth is adequate for the ground conditions.
Driveway Planning Rules in Aldershot and the GU11 Area
The area has a competitive driveway contractor market, and Aldershot is well served by contractors from both Farnham and Farnborough. Getting three itemised quotes — with sub-base depth, edging type, and drainage specified in writing — is the right approach to comparing options accurately. Planning permission isn't required for permeable surfaces or for small impermeable surfaces, but the 5 square metre rule for impermeable front garden surfaces applies in Aldershot as it does nationally. Resin bound gravel has become increasingly popular in the GU11 area given its permeability and clean appearance.