Most new driveways in England don't need planning permission, as long as rainwater is dealt with on your own property. The rules changed in 2008 to reduce flooding from front gardens paved over with hard surfaces.
When permission is needed
If your front drive is over five square metres and uses an impermeable surface that drains onto the road, you'll need permission. Listed buildings and conservation areas can have extra rules, so check with your council.
How to avoid it
Choose a permeable surface such as resin bound, permeable block paving or gravel, or direct water from a traditional surface into a soakaway or planted area. This is what SuDS-compliant means.
Dropped kerbs are separate
Crossing a pavement or verge needs a dropped kerb, which is a separate council application. We can advise at your survey and help you apply.