Extension: Blockwork or Timber

[Lift span]

Dear All,

 

Finally got planning permission and I’m looking at what my options are for building my new front entrance way.

 

The slight complication is that a 6m long retaining wall is required as part of the design (1.5m high of earth to be retained).

 

I’m thinking standard footings with steel reinforced hollow concrete blocks for the retaining wall. This wall would also form the substructure under the doorway.

 

 

For the walls of the entrance way what would be better? Timber or blockwork?