Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find common questions relating to:

  1. Pricing and Value

  2. Timelines and Process

  3. Planning, permissions and regulations

  4. Design, materials and suitability

  5. Family, safety and practical use

  6. Aftercare, guarantees and quality

Pricing & Value

  • This depends on how big the area and the level of specification. It also depends on access and ground conditions. There are many factors to consider when budgeting for garden landscaping, so to help we offer free phone or in person consultations.

  • Aside of the size of area, the next biggest cost is materials. For example, timber or bricks and tiles… porcelain paving or natural Indian sandstone. The degree of complexity, skill and craftsmanship is another significant variable. Ground conditions are also very important to consider… e.g. clay solis need deeper excavation and deeper sub-base thus higher costs.

  • Yes! Absolutely. Once groundworks have been completed, the garden can then be constructed in stages towards delivery of a clear final design.

  • Following discussions, choices and survey - we first provide an informal estimate. If this is workable, we define this with a formal and binding quotation for defined landscaping services.

  • The one area which cannot be mitigated is the groundworks. A garden is only as good as the foundations it is built on, so it is vital to do this properly. There are comparatively low cost paving slabs, such as Indian sandstone. Timber sleepers and gravel plus lawn turf can also be economical options.

Timelines & Process

  • Our average project takes 2 weeks, whilst small projects may just take a couple of days and large, complex projects longer. Essentially, we believe it is important to do it right and do it well rather than rush and cut corners.

  • Every project begins with a site survey followed by setting out of the plan. During construction, most of our projects begin with groundworks. This involves a digger and tracked barrow plus grab lorries. Creation then begins of the gardens features. Lawn turf, surface of artificial grass and grouting of patios are usually the last tasks of the project.

  • Typically, Goodwin Gardens Ltd is booked 3-6 months in advance.

  • The limitation is usually 5C. Temperatures any colder become risky for any landscaping tasks involving wet mortars. Wet weather is another limitation, particularly for groundworks.

  • This is a question of personal preference. Our principle requirement is access to electricity and water. We often use other nearby facilities. So, internal access to the property is seldom needed.

Design, Materials & Suitability

  • The key here is clever design, with a focus on wants and needs. When we get the shape right, the next principle is fewer materials = bigger feel. The paradox here is the paving… go big for a small garden. Large format paving has fewer joints. Other considerations are to keep the centre open with a clear passage plus use vertical space plus simple, repeated, soft planting to blur hard edges.

  • Porcelain is the lowest maintenance option. Natural stones are, well, natural… so more prone to discolouration and organic growth which is harder to clean.

  • We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we do it that sets us apart.

  • Yes! A new build is a blank canvas. Ideal for landscaping with infinite potential for personalisation. We have done many. Some case study projects are in Sandbach, Shavington and Trentham … many others in Crewe as well.

  • In a nutshell… simple layouts, durable materials, and a limited planting palette. Hard landscaping such as paving, gravel, or decking reduces lawn care, while well-chosen plants provide structure with a long season of interest. Thoughtful drainage, weed-suppressing ground cover, and automated irrigation or lighting can further reduce maintenance.

Family, Safety & Practical Use

  • Yes! Texture, colour and scent are important for sensory engagement and exploration as are open areas for play and learning. Some ornamental grasses and Mediterranean herbs are popular plants. Also think meandering pathways, water, seating and play structures. Here are two case studies… one in Nantwich and one in Crewe.

  • During construction, it is sensible to regard your garden as a building site. Whilst hazards and risks can be mitigated at the end of each working day, until completion a 100% safe garden for your pets can not be guaranteed.

  • Yes. Exactly how depends on the starting point. There are many different method for creating a trip-free and easy access garden… a site survey is the best option to see what is possible.

  • Typical drainage solutions include french drains and soak aways, whilst depending on the gradient of the slope, you may also like to consider terracing.

Planning, Permissions & Regulations

  • In most cases, garden landscaping does not require planning permission. However, permission may be needed for raised decking, retaining walls, structures such as garden rooms (less so pergolas) near boundaries, significant changes to ground levels, or work in conservation areas or listed properties.

  • Yes — patios, driveways and other hard surfaces must manage water responsibly so rain doesn’t run onto neighbours’ property or public highways. In the UK, including Cheshire East, the preferred approach is permeable surfacing (e.g., porous paving or resin bound) or directing runoff to a soakaway, garden area, or drainage system. Building Regulations often require this for new or extended driveways.

  • In most cases, garden walls and raised beds do not need planning permission. However, permission may be required if a wall is over 1 metre high next to a highway, over 2 metres elsewhere, or if the property is listed or in a conservation area. Raised beds that significantly alter ground levels or affect drainage or boundaries can also trigger permission; whilst this is rare.

  • Work near boundaries must respect height limits and neighbour rights.

    • Fences and walls: usually no higher than 2 m without permission; 1 m next to a highway.

    • Pergolas/arbors: if they are permanent and over 2 m, they can require permission.

    • Structures must not cause loss of light, drainage issues, or nuisance to neighbours.

    • Conservation areas or listed buildings can have stricter rules.

  • Under the UK Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM), the Client (homeowner or developer) is legally responsible for ensuring that planning permission and or building regulations approval is in place (if required)

    A landscaper does not have a legal duty under CDM to obtain planning permission, unless the contract explicitly says they will do this, or they are acting as a design-and-build contractor and have also agreed to manage approvals. This is not standard service for Goodwin Gardens Ltd.

Aftercare, Guarantees & Quality

  • Our guarantee, first and foremost, is care and attention. Knowing that by choosing Goodwin Gardens Ltd, your garden is constructed properly… built to last. That said, by way of statutory rights, every client has a 6 year guarantee under the consumer rights act.

  • There is no such thing as a no maintenance garden. In our blog you will find a maintenance guide covering most types of landscaped installation. Alternatively, contact us and we would be happy to email this to you.

  • The first action is to notify your installed without delay, and before any other actions are taken. This way the problem can be investigated to inform any necessary corrective action.

  • Yes, we have £1 million public liability insurance in addition to professional indemnity to cover design work.

    Continuous Professional Development is also a key principle of Goodwin Gardens Ltd, for all our landscaping team.