Tarmac driveway resurfacing in Dorset

How much does tarmac resurfacing cost in Dorset?

Rates in Dorset follow the South West, about 3% above our UK midpoint.

Item	Guide price (inc VAT)
Tarmac resurfacing over a sound existing base	£26–£46 per m²
Example: 30 m² drive	£850–£1,550
Example: 50 m² drive	£1,300–£2,300
Example: 80 m² drive	£2,050–£3,700

Towns we cover in Dorset

Postcode areas: BH, DT.

What is included?

Tarmac resurfacing, or an overlay, means cleaning and repairing an existing drive, spraying a bond coat and laying a new surface course of about 25–40 mm on top, without digging out the base.

Survey of the existing base: sinking, rutting, loose edges and drainage
Cut out and patch failed areas before overlaying
Plane or cut back at thresholds, kerbs and covers so levels still work
Weed treatment and a clean surface
New surface course, typically 25–40 mm, laid hot and rolled
Edges sealed and joints to existing surfaces cut neatly

Rules in Dorset

In England, a new hard surface over 5 m² in front of a house needs planning permission unless it is porous or drains to a lawn, border or soakaway within the property. A vehicle crossing over the footway is a separate approval, from the highway authority (the county or unitary council).