subject: Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) – Are you compliant? [print this page] Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) Are you compliant?
There is far greater awareness of water drainage these days because of the damage and expense caused by flash floods along with questions asked of the Governments Environment's Department management regarding surface water run-off.
Sustainable drainage is the practice of controlling surface water runoff as close to its origin as possible, before it is discharged into a watercourse or sewer. This involves moving away from traditional piped drainage systems towards softer' engineering solutions which seeks to mimic natural drainage regimes. Sustainable drainage techniques have many benefits such as reducing flood risk, improving water quality, encouraging groundwater recharge and providing amenity and wildlife benefits.
For a drainage scheme to be termed sustainable' it must meet the following three criteria depicted in the diagram below and advocated by CIRIA (Construction Industry Research and Information Association).
SUDS are increasingly common in all types of development.
Benefits of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS)
Prevents diffuse water pollution from built up areas.
Slows down surface water run-off from a construction site to help reduce the chances of flooding.
Reduces the risk of sewer flooding during heavy rain.
Recharges groundwater to help prevent drought.
Provides valuable habitats for wildlife in built up areas.
Creates green spaces for people in urban areas.
How SUDS are achieved
There are more suppliers developing building products to meet the new regulations for permeable surfaces such as Hanson Formpave, Aquapave Permeable Block and swales (shallow drainage channels) from Aco Technologies.
Green roofs naturally absorb rainwater, can improve water quality and reduce the peak flow discharged from a roof. In addition, they can enhance insulation, offer a wildlife habitat and increase the lifespan of the roof.
Rainwater reuse (or harvesting) involves the collection and storage of rainwater on site and its use as a substitute for mains water, for example in watering gardens or for flushing toilets.
The use of purpose built ponds and wetland provide an area to control the water run off and for aquatic animals to thrive. Most major building projects will normally have purpose built ponds.
Water is a valuable resource and with the changing climate Governments and populations are more aware about conservation of water and managing the excesses when they happen. More companies and householders are looking to adopt some form of rain- water harvesting so water can be used several times over.
There are many more storms hitting different parts of the country and planers now have to show that they have allowed for exceptional weather. They have to show that the SUDS they install are fit for purpose and link into the local drainage capability.
The Environment Agency confirms the SUDS approach to drainage incorporates a wide variety of techniques. As a result, there is no one correct drainage solution for a site. In most cases, a combination of techniques is required, we recommend you research the internet for a understanding of these techniques and if appropriate discuss SUDS with your building contractor how this fits in with sustainable construction.
