Sustainable drainage is now a material planning consideration for the local planning authority.
Other advice and guidance on managing flooding, including flood risk assessments, can be found on our Flooding page.
Any new developments or redevelopment should undertake suitable development planning to ensure a water sensitive urban design. This design should incorporate sustainable drainage to help create beautiful, successful and resilient places.
What are sustainable drainage systems?
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are ways of managing surface water that account for water quantity (flooding), water quality (pollution) and amenity issues. SuDS mimic nature and usually manage rainfall close to where it falls. They can slow down water before it enters streams, rivers and other watercourses.
There are many drainage options available, including green roofs, permeable paving, swales and ponds. For a visual overview of SuDS, watch CIRIA's animation created for its susdrain project.