Premium Block Paving Systems · Specialist DivisionBLOCK by Hinchliffe
Tobermore Approved block paving with sub-bases that outlast the blocks. Block driveways, courtyards, premium paving, borders and decorative features.
Every block by hinchliffe install is engineered using recognised pavement-construction principles and relevant BS 7533 guidance, survey, engineered sub-base, edge restraints and approved surface systems.
Traditional and contemporary block paving in a wide range of formats, colours and laying patterns. As Tobermore Approved Paving Contractors we install to the manufacturer's spec, meaning the sub-base, edge restraint and jointing all match the surface guarantee.
Best for
- →Character properties and traditional homes
- →Driveways that need defined patterns or borders
- →Patios integrated with driveway design
Engineered block pavement systems
A block pavement is a structural construction, not a pattern choice. The laying course, restraint and jointing are specified alongside the sub-base rather than decided on site.
Construction sequence
Adjusted to loading, ground conditions and the specified pavement.
- 1Excavation to formation
- 2Formation preparation
- 3Geotextile separation where specified
- 4Structural sub-base compacted in layers
- 5Laying course to the specified material and depth
- 6Edge restraint
- 7Block pavement laid to the specified bond
- 8Jointing
- 9Compaction
- 10Drainage, falls and discharge completed as designed
Relevant BS 7533 principles are applied to modular pavement construction, alongside manufacturer specifications and project-specific requirements.
BLOCK by Hinchliffe, your questions.
Is block paving built to a recognised standard?
BS 7533 provides recognised guidance for the design and construction of modular pavements using clay, concrete and natural stone paving units. Hinchliffe applies relevant BS 7533 principles where appropriate, alongside established pavement-engineering practice, manufacturer specifications and project-specific requirements.
How long does block paving last?
A correctly designed, installed and maintained block pavement can provide decades of service. Most 'failed' driveways aren't failed blocks, they're failed edges or an under-specified sub-base. As Tobermore Approved Paving Contractors we build to manufacturer spec so the guarantee stands.
Will weeds grow between the blocks?
Not if the joints are done properly. We use kiln-dried sand or polymeric jointing to fully lock the joints. Weeds usually only appear when jointing sand has washed out, top up sand periodically and you'll rarely see any.
What's the difference between kiln-dried and polymeric jointing?
Kiln-dried sand is the traditional option, cheap, easy to top up, but can wash out over time. Polymeric jointing sets hard after wetting, resists weeds and washout, and works well on slopes or driveways washed frequently. We recommend the right one per project.
Do I need planning permission for a block paving driveway?
Permeable construction can often avoid the need for planning permission for front-garden driveways, provided the complete system manages water within the property and satisfies applicable planning and drainage requirements. Final suitability depends on the complete construction, subgrade permeability, levels, discharge route and local site conditions, not the surface material alone. We design drainage in as standard, using permeable blocks or channelling to a soakaway where appropriate.
Can you replace or repair sunken blocks?
Yes. Individual blocks can be lifted, the base re-levelled and the block re-laid. If a whole area is sinking, it's a sub-base failure, not a block failure, that needs excavation and re-laying to fix properly.
Block paving
- Excavation
- Disposal of arisings
- Formation assessment
- Geotextile where specified
- Engineered Type 1 sub-base
- Drainage provisions
- Structural edge restraints
- Compliant laying course
- Selected Tobermore paving
- Cutting, jointing and final compaction
- Completion inspection
- Selected product and laying pattern
- Cutting complexity and level changes
- Excavation depth and disposal
Uplift depends on the selected product and laying design.
Permeable paving requires a complete compatible system. Permeable blocks laid over a conventional impermeable construction must not be described as a permeable driveway.
Recommended minimum block-paving project value: £5,000 plus VAT
The rates above cover the surfacing system itself. Everything below the surface, and everything site-specific, is measured and calculated separately in the Hinchliffe Project Builder™ process.
- Excavation, formation preparation and compaction
- Spoil removal, haulage and tip disposal
- Sub-base supply, laying and testing
- Drainage, soakaways, linear channels and SUDS provision
- Kerbs, edgings, retaining structures and level changes
- Service covers, utility alterations and manhole adjustment
- Restricted access, plant hire and site complexity allowances
- Mobilisation, welfare, traffic management and risk allowances
Guide prices are not quotations or contractual offers. Final pricing is issued only after site assessment, measured quantities and confirmation of the construction specification. Prices exclude VAT unless expressly stated otherwise. Unforeseen ground conditions, concealed services, contamination and client-requested changes are managed under the written contract and variation procedure.
Request a measured site assessmentBlock Paving by town
Ground conditions change from one Cheshire town to the next. Pick your area to see how we build there, what we typically find below the surface and what it usually costs.
Customer proof
"We were really impressed with the project management, the team kept the neighbours informed throughout the job and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. A five-star service."
"Dan and the team were professional from start to finish. The workmanship was outstanding and the driveway has completely transformed our home. Highly recommend."
"Excellent communication throughout the project. Everything was completed exactly as promised and to a very high standard."