Full driveway material list — sub-base, sand and surface (gravel, block paving, concrete or tarmac) for your driveway size.
You get the compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base in tonnes plus the surface material: loose gravel, block pavers with a laying course of sand, ready-mix concrete, or tarmac. Driveways carry vehicle loads, so a deeper sub-base than a patio is essential.
For cars, 150 mm of compacted MOT Type 1 is the usual minimum. For heavier vehicles or soft ground, go to 200 mm or more.
Standard 200 × 100 mm blocks work out at about 50 per square metre. Always order a few percent extra for cuts.
Yes — block paving and gravel both need a solid edging to stop the surface spreading. Budget for edge kerbs or restraints separately.
A typical domestic driveway needs 100–150 mm of compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base; clay or soft ground may need more.
Sometimes, if the existing base is sound and levels allow, but it is usually better to excavate and lay a proper sub-base for a long-lasting result.