Ash at a glance: although it borders Aldershot and Farnborough, Ash is in Guildford borough, so Guildford Borough Council handles planning. A permeable resin driveway is normally permitted development. On newer estates, check whether planning conditions or covenants restrict front-garden changes.
Ash homes and driveways
Ash has grown substantially, with recent housing alongside older village properties near the church and Victorian homes in Ash Vale. Many newer homes have tandem or side-by-side parking with block paving or tarmac that owners want to upgrade.
Planning
- Planning authority: Guildford Borough Council
- Conservation areas: the Basingstoke Canal North and South conservation areas pass through the area
- Highways and dropped kerbs: Surrey County Council
Ground and drainage
The Blackwater valley has a mix of sandy heathland ground and lower, wetter land near the river. Some new-build plots also have compacted or made ground. A site drainage test tells the installer whether a drive can drain to ground. If you are replacing block paving, it will need lifting rather than overlaying. See resin vs block paving.
What suits Ash properties
- New-build two-car drives: replace tired block paving with a permeable resin build-up and a slim border.
- Victorian homes in Ash Vale: warm natural blends.
Frequently asked questions
I live on a new-build estate. Is anything different?
Some newer developments have planning conditions removing permitted development rights, or covenants and management company rules about frontages. Check your title deeds and the original planning permission before work.
Which areas do you cover?
Ash, Ash Green, Ash Vale, Tongham and nearby, in GU12 and GU10.
Nearby areas
Farnham (GU9, GU10)
Farnham, Wrecclesham, Rowledge, The Bourne, Badshot Lea and Tilford.
Worplesdon, Pirbright, Normandy
Worplesdon, Jacobs Well, Wood Street, Normandy and Pirbright north-west of Guildford.
Guildford (GU1–GU4)
Town centre, Merrow, Burpham, Stoughton, Onslow Village and West Clandon.