Tobermore Hydropave Permeable Block Paving: A Guide for UK Driveways

Choosing a new driveway is about more than colour and appearance. Surface water needs somewhere to go, particularly during heavy rainfall. Tobermore Hydropave permeable block paving combines attractive concrete paving with a drainage system designed to manage rainwater at source.

At UK Building Supplies, we offer four Hydropave styles: Tegula Duo, Shannon Duo, Pedesta and Fusion Duo. This guide explains how the system works, how the finishes differ and what to consider before ordering.

What is Tobermore Hydropave permeable paving?

Hydropave is Tobermore's range of permeable concrete block paving. Unlike conventional block paving, which typically sheds rainwater across the surface, Hydropave is designed to let water pass through specially formed joints into the correctly constructed aggregate layers below.

The blocks are only one part of the system. The jointing grit, laying course, open-graded sub-base and drainage design all matter. Ground conditions determine whether water can infiltrate into the soil or whether a designed attenuation and outlet arrangement is needed.

Why choose permeable block paving for a driveway?

• Manage rainwater at source: a properly designed system helps reduce surface runoff and standing water.
• Choose a style that suits the property: from classic weathered blocks to contemporary smooth or granite-textured finishes.
• Plan for driveway drainage: permeable paving can form part of a sustainable drainage approach, subject to site suitability.
• Create an attractive, practical surface: select the paving appearance while ensuring the underlying system is specified for the intended vehicle loading.

Explore our Tobermore Hydropave range

Hydropave Tegula Duo 60mm – traditional, weathered character

For cottages, period-style homes and driveways where a softer, established appearance works best, Tegula Duo has tumbled, weathered edges. Its mixed-format appearance is a good option when a driveway needs character rather than a crisp, uniform finish.

Shop Tobermore Hydropave Tegula Duo 60mm.

Hydropave Shannon Duo 60mm – smooth contemporary finish

Shannon Duo pairs square and rectangular paving units with a smooth finish. It is a strong choice for a neat, modern driveway, particularly alongside contemporary brickwork or rendered properties.

Shop Tobermore Hydropave Shannon Duo 60mm.

Hydropave Pedesta 60mm – classic rectangular block paving

Pedesta uses the familiar rectangular 200 × 100mm paving format. It is suited to homeowners who like the traditional block-paved driveway look but want a permeable paving system. The regular format also offers familiar laying-pattern options, subject to the manufacturer's installation requirements.

Shop Tobermore Hydropave Pedesta 60mm.

Hydropave Fusion Duo 60mm – distinctive granite aggregate finish

Fusion Duo has an exposed granite aggregate finish for a more textured, premium appearance. It suits buyers looking for an architectural driveway surface with a little more visual detail.

Shop Tobermore Hydropave Fusion Duo 60mm.

Hydropave vs standard block paving: what is the difference?

The main difference is how surface water is managed. Conventional block paving usually directs rainwater to falls, drains or other suitable drainage areas. A permeable block paving system allows water to pass through the joints into a specially designed, open-graded construction below.

Important: a Hydropave driveway cannot simply be installed over a conventional compacted Type 1 sub-base and sharp sand and expected to work as a permeable system. The correct aggregate specification and site-specific drainage design are essential.

What sub-base and jointing materials does Hydropave need?

Tobermore's domestic Hydropave installation guidance specifies 20–4mm clean, graded angular aggregate for the permeable sub-base and 6.3–2mm clean, graded angular grit for the laying course and joints. It expressly states that MOT Type 1 is not suitable for the permeable sub-base and sharp sand must not be used as the laying course.

Sub-base depth depends on the existing ground, expected loading and the system design. Do not select a depth from a generic driveway guide without checking the specific site. The correct treatment of the subgrade, geotextile, edge restraints and any outlet also needs to be established before work starts.

For installation details, refer to Tobermore's domestic Hydropave installation guidance and use a suitably competent installer or designer.

Do you need planning permission for a permeable driveway in England?

Under the general rules for houses in England, a new or replacement front driveway using genuinely permeable surfacing, or one directing rainwater to a suitable permeable area within the property, may not require planning permission solely because of its surface area. By contrast, traditional impermeable surfacing over 5m² can require permission where runoff is not managed in that way.

These are general rules, not a guarantee of permission for every site. Flats, listed properties, areas with restricted permitted development rights and other site-specific circumstances may be treated differently. Check the Planning Portal guidance for front gardens and consult your local planning authority where needed.

Which Hydropave block should you choose?

If you prefer an aged, traditional appearance, consider Tegula Duo. For clean, contemporary lines, look at Shannon Duo. If you want a familiar rectangular block-paving format, choose Pedesta. For a more distinctive exposed-aggregate appearance, explore Fusion Duo.

Colour, pack coverage and ordering options vary by product, so use the individual product pages for the current choices and specifications rather than assuming all four ranges are interchangeable.

Buying Hydropave for your driveway

Before ordering, measure the proposed paved area in metres and multiply length by width to calculate the approximate square metres. Allow for the actual layout, cutting and any additional paving required. Have the drainage design and installation specification agreed before buying the sub-base and bedding aggregates.

Need help choosing the right Hydropave product? Browse the four ranges above or contact UK Building Supplies with your driveway measurements, preferred colour and the style you like. We can help you identify the appropriate paving product and ordering quantity. Drainage and structural suitability must be confirmed by your installer or designer.