Godalming at a glance: Godalming is in Waverley borough, so Waverley Borough Council handles planning. Permeable resin driveways are normally permitted development, but the historic town centre is a conservation area and many older properties are listed. Much of the area sits on sandy Lower Greensand, which often drains well, though steep plots need careful detailing at the bottom of the slope.
Godalming homes and driveways
Godalming mixes a medieval and Georgian town centre, Victorian villas on the slopes above the Wey, and 20th-century estates in Farncombe and Binscombe. Many older properties use Bargate stone, the local sandstone, which strongly influences which aggregate colours look right. Steep streets mean many drives slope towards the road or the house.
Planning in Godalming
- Planning authority: Waverley Borough Council
- Conservation area: Godalming town centre, plus others in the surrounding villages
- Highways and dropped kerbs: Surrey County Council
Check with Waverley before work if you live in a conservation area or a listed building. Otherwise see our planning guide.
Ground, slopes and drainage
Much of Godalming sits on Lower Greensand, which is often free-draining, suiting permeable build-ups. On slopes, water runs downhill through and over the build-up, so the installer may add a channel drain at the low point, especially if that point is the house or garage. Government guidance notes drives steeper than 1 in 20 may not suit permeable surfacing on their own, and an anti-slip grit is worth specifying on gradients. See are resin driveways slippery?.
What suits Godalming properties
- Bargate stone and period homes: warm, natural blends and a sett border.
- Sloping drives: anti-slip grit, careful falls and drainage at the bottom.
- Farncombe and Binscombe semis: compact permeable drives with a contrasting edge.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas around Godalming do you cover?
Godalming, Farncombe, Binscombe, Busbridge, Milford, Witley and Hambledon, in GU7 and GU8. Enter your postcode and we will match you with the local installer.
Which resin colours suit Bargate stone houses?
Warm buffs, light stone and honey-gold blends tend to sit well with Bargate stone's ginger and brown tones. Approve colour from a physical sample against your walls.
Nearby areas
Guildford (GU1–GU4)
Town centre, Merrow, Burpham, Stoughton, Onslow Village and West Clandon.
Shalford, Bramley, Wonersh, Chilworth
The villages south of Guildford along the Wey and Tillingbourne.
Haslemere and Hindhead (GU26, GU27)
Haslemere, Hindhead, Grayswood, Shottermill and Beacon Hill.
Cranleigh and Ewhurst (GU6)
Cranleigh, Ewhurst, Alfold and the GU6 villages on the Weald Clay.