Block driveway with a charcoal drainage channel

Why does a driveway need a drainage channel?

A paved driveway sheds rain that used to soak into open ground. Under UK planning rules that run-off has to be dealt with on the property, so a channel collects it along the low side and directs it to a soakaway or border rather than out onto the highway.

What is a double soldier course for?

Two rows of blocks laid end-on frame the edge and give the channel a rigid shoulder. It stops the herringbone field creeping sideways under wheel loads and gives every cut block something solid to sit against.

• Edge restraint haunched in concrete below finished level
• Channel set marginally low so water finds it
• Contrasting charcoal blocks so the line reads deliberately

Does the finished level matter at the kerb?

Yes. The drive is brought out to meet the existing footpath level without a lip, so there is no step for tyres and no ponding at the entrance. Getting that transition right is what stops a new drive looking bolted on.