Small retaining wall and paved path with steps

Question

Hi,
We're in North Wales, Conwy County.
We would like to build a small 4.8-5m long, block flat, retaining wall, the drop is 0.6m at the front of property 
There are utilities under the area where the path and wall would be (gas, electric and water).
What would a project like this cost?
Thank you

Liam · Answer

Project Summary (as described)
Location: Conwy County, North Wales
Wall type: Block-built flat retaining wall
Length: approx. 4.8–5.0 metres
Retained height: ~0.6 metres
Position: Front of property
Complication: Gas, electric & water services beneath path/wall
Typical Base Cost (No Utilities Complications)
For a 0.6m high block retaining wall, professionally built with proper foundations and drainage:
£150–£250 per m² installed
Your wall area ≈ 3.0 m²
Base build cost:
£600 – £900
This aligns with UK retaining wall averages of £50–£250 per m², depending on structure and ground conditions �.
MyBuilder
Additional Costs Due to Underground Utilities (Important)
Because utilities run beneath the work area, extra precautions are mandatory, and this is where cost increases.
Likely additional requirements:
Utility plans & scans (CAT scan / GPR)
£150 – £300
Hand digging only near services
Slower labour = higher cost
Shallower or redesigned foundation
Possibly reinforced concrete footing
Utility protection measures
Sand blinding, marker tape, protective ducting
Potential service provider coordination
Especially gas & electric
Utility-related uplift:
+ £500 – £1,200
Drainage & Structural Requirements (Retaining Wall)
Even at 0.6m, a retaining wall should include:
Concrete footing
Weep holes or land drain
Gravel backfill
Geotextile membrane
These are normally included in professional quotes but add cost versus a simple garden wall.
Expected price range:
💷 £1,200 – £2,900 all in

Small retaining wall and paved path with steps

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