Driveway installation in Much Hadham and the Hadhams

What are the Hadhams like?

Much Hadham is a long village in the valley of the River Ash, with a main street lined by period houses, cottages and larger historic homes. Many of them are listed, and the village has a conservation area. Around it, hamlets and farms are reached by winding lanes with hedges, banks and verges. Some homes are old cottages with no parking at all, while others are substantial houses with long drives and outbuildings.

This page covers the SG10 postcode district. Parts of the neighbouring villages, including much of Little Hadham, have a different postcode, so check yours on the enquiry form.

What should I know if my house is listed?

A listed building is protected inside and out, and that can include walls, gates, railings and historic surfaces within its grounds. Changing the approach to a listed house may need listed building consent as well as, or instead of, planning permission. The front garden rules that let many homeowners pave without permission are not a reliable guide here, so speak to East Herts District Council before you plan anything.

Gravel, bound gravel and reclaimed setts or bricks are often chosen because they suit older buildings.

Are trees a concern?

Very often. Mature trees are a big part of the village's character. In a conservation area, you must normally give the council notice before cutting down or pruning most trees, and trees with a tree preservation order need consent. Driveway work can harm roots even when no branches are touched, so a no-dig grid or a careful route around the tree may be suggested.

What about lanes, verges and entrances?

Verges beside country lanes can form part of the highway. Widening a gateway or making a new entrance onto a lane may need Hertfordshire County Council's approval, and a new access onto a classified road can need planning permission. Ditches along lanes often carry water away, so they should not be filled or blocked by a new entrance without advice.

Does drainage matter on a rural drive?

Yes. A long drive that sheds water onto a lane causes problems for the road and for neighbours. Gravel and other permeable surfaces help, and a sloping drive may need channels or a soakaway.

How does an enquiry from the Hadhams work?

Use one form. With your consent, we pass it to one local driveway installer who covers your postcode, and nobody else sees it. If no installer covers it, we tell you and your details stay with us.