Understanding the new planning rules for front gardens
From 1st October 2008 new planning rules apply for householders wanting to lay paving in their front gardens. Planning permission is now required for any impermeable surface exceeding 5m2 in a front garden.
Using a permeable landscape geotextile fabric such as Terram GravelSure or Terram GroundSure, in conjunction with a permeable paving solution such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving or porous asphalt, planning permission will not be required.
FAQs
These Frequently Asked Questions are to help you choose the right product, resolve queries, and help you with any projects using Terram Landscape fabrics.
Simply click on the question of your choice from the navigation bar above.
Which way up do I lay Terram Landscape fabric?
For most Terram products, either way. Terram has the same properties in all directions. The exception is Terram RootGuard+. For this product the shiney side should be placed facing the roots that you are protecting against.
Can I lay Terram Landscape fabric on existing flower beds and borders?
Yes. Although slightly more fiddly than a new bed, Terram Landscape fabric can be cut around the base of your plants. To cover wider areas, lay strips of fabrics side-by-side with a 100mm overlap until the desired area is covered.
How long will Terram Landscape fabric last?
When installed correctly, and covered within 14 days of opening the wrapper, Terram Landscape fabric is predicted to be durable for over 25 years. If used uncovered or with insufficient cover prolonged exposure to the ultra violet rays in sunlight will weaken the tensile strength of Terram Landscape fabric.
Can I walk directly on Terram Landscape fabric?
Yes. Terram Landscape fabric is used under footpaths in many public parks. It is also used under golf bunkers and turfed sports surfaces.
Will Terram Landscape fabric harm children or pets?
No. It is chemically inert. It can even be used to line pond plant baskets and also as a filter layer in fish tanks.
Can I use any type of gravel for the Terram GravelSure infill material?
No, only CRUSHED, ANGULAR INFILL should be used, not pea shingle or cobble type products.
Do I really need a landscape fabric under my paving?
Yes, we would recommend it for the long term benefits of stabilisation, and also to give stability in the installation process.
What are the new rules for paving front gardens?
The new rules state that areas greater than 5m2 may require planning permission unless permeable paving is used. In this instance Terram GroundSure can be used to assist in overcoming the need to apply for planning permission (please refer to the Governments document).
How do I install Terram Landscape products?
To install Terram products click here for our HOW TO Guides.
Does it matter which side of the fabric is laid against the soil?
For most Terram products, either way is fine as the products have the same properties in all directions. The exception is Terram RootGuard Plus. For this product the shiny side should be placed facing the roots that you are protecting against.
How do I fix the landscape fabric in place?
If required, plastic fixing pegs can be used to secure the fabric, click here for more details.
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