PHPD puts the questions to Thomas Sturtridge, Flood Risk Engineer, MEC Consulting Group, who discusses all things SuDS

What’s regarded as best practice for SuDS design?

The recognised industry standard is the Four Pillars. Outlined in the CIRIA SuDS manual, the Four Pillars; Quantity, Quality, Amenity and Biodiversity, provide a comprehensive benchmark for ensuring that any increases in surface water runoff leave a site at the same rate as if there was no development. When rainwater falls, the rate it reaches water courses or sewers is measured on a curve. When it falls on open green grass, you get a gentle sloping curve. When it falls on developed impermeable areas, the curve rises and declines sharply, which can cause flash flooding, sewer back-ups and wider flooding. The Four Pillars provides us with an approach to ‘flatten the curve’.

What are the most popular SuDS designs?

We’re seeing a strong preference for above ground or ‘green’ SuDS as these positively contribute to amenity and biodiversity. As well as tree pits and rain gardens, other above ground solutions include basins (with and without a permanent body of water within them), swales and wetlands. Ponds are also being requested more frequently, especially those with a permanent water basin at the bottom, as this enables effective water management but also makes an attractive habitat for ducks, geese and insects. ‘Blue’ SuDS infrastructure such as permeable paving or filter strips and drains still have their benefits but only tend to contribute towards water quantity and quality, hence the preference for green infrastructure that addresses all four pillars.

While the typical SuDS hierarchy is discharge at source (infiltration), discharge to a water course, discharge to a surface water sewer, and discharge to a combined sewer (as a last resort), there’s a growing demand for re-use. Some local authorities are shifting focus towards developments including rainwater harvesting, meaning individual dwellings having a water butt, and we anticipate this being more widely adopted to align with the new National Standards.

Do you have any other advice for housebuilders?

Early engagement saves time. Flood risk engineers can be consulted even before a land purchase. We will look at topography, potential outfall locations and how much attenuation is needed based on the proposal. It’s always more than you think! We can also assess any wider possible constraints such as immediate flood risks or nutrient neutrality, as well as factor in design for maintenance tracks and buffer zones around SuDS features to allow for future profiling work and to ensure a suitable distance is kept between these and new homes.

Having data like this before a masterplan is produced could make the difference in the overall number of units and subsequent site viability. The more of the Four Pillars we can meet well, the more likely the scheme will gain planning consent on flood risk and drainage terms. One final piece of advice, which seems obvious but needs saying; water follows gravity. We have seen drawings with basins beautifully drawn but located halfway up hills and water doesn’t go uphill! Pumping is always a last resort.

When we are looking for places to put attenuation basins it will aways be at the lowest point of a site, ideally with a gravity fed connection to the proposed outfall.

For more information, visit www.rdr.link/dbg033

The post What’s regarded as best practice for SuDS design? appeared first on PHPD Online.

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are an increasingly vital tool in modern housing developments.

They are designed to drain surface water run-off in a manner that replicates the natural water cycle. By storing and reusing surface water at its source, SuDS decrease flow rates to water courses and improves overall water quality.

The mandatory adoption of SuDS through Schedule 3 was expected in 2024 but has still not materialised, despite the increasing strain on often outdated, oversaturated water systems and infrastructure. The government has continued to focus on guidelines – rather than legislation – which is creating both confusion and uncertainty. As a result, housebuilders face pressure to deliver high-quality, sustainable schemes whilst navigating tight budgets and time constraints in a vague regulatory landscape.

Bringing manufacturers in at the concept stage

One of the biggest barriers to SuDS adoption is uncertainty: what solutions are suitable for a given site, how should the system integrate with landscaping and infrastructure, and how can maximum performance be guaranteed?

Developers are often faced with juggling multiple teams and tight schedules, which is why manufacturers should be involved from the get-go. The onus is on technical teams to work closely with developers and other customers to assess site conditions and recommend systems tailored to space, budget, and planning requirements. This collaborative approach ensures a smoother design process and reduces potential delays during later stages of development.

Confusion or lack of knowledge around specifying and installing SuDS is still prevalent, but manufacturer-led education can play a key role in building up confidence across the industry. The rollout of SuDS manuals and technical guides can simplify design principles, clarify terminology, and explain performance expectations to developers, increasing understanding of how systems work in real-world scenarios. Empowered with this Richard Eddy, Category Manager for Underground & Utilities at Polypipe Building Products, explores the role that manufacturers can play in demystifying SuDS for developers throughout the design, specification, and installation processes, allowing the potential of systems to be maximised on site knowledge, developers can avoid costly mistakes, accurately estimate costs and deliver systems that perform as intended.

Making installation practical and economical

Whilst a SuDS design may look good on paper, issues on site, such as unexpected soil conditions, limited space, or site access, can complicate installation.

The overarching principle of SuDS design is that surface water runoff should be managed for maximum benefit. The various types of benefits fit into four categories known as the four pillars of SuDS – Water Quantity, Water Quality, Amenity and Biodiversity. When developers have an expert partner in their corner, they can implement these principles, foreseeing and addressing challenges before they arise.

Support during the installation phase is also key. Every project comes with its own set of unique obstacles, so sitespecific advice can ensure seamless integration of systems with the broader construction schedule.

Unlocking the benefits on site and beyond SuDS do more than simply manage surface water. When designed correctly, they can also improve biodiversity, create greener spaces, and provide aesthetic value to the development. Offerings extend to blue-green roofs, ponds, and swales, as well as tree pits and podium decks – creating additional environmental benefits whilst providing vital greenspace for developments.

SuDS also serve as a great marketing tool, demonstrating commitment to sustainability and compliance with modern environmental standards. With clear design, accurate specification, and effective installation, SuDS can enhance both the physical quality of a development and its appeal to buyers, who increasingly look for homes with sustainable features.

Moreover, a well-designed SuDS can reduce long-term maintenance costs, as systems will be more effective at controlling surface water runoff, which, if left unchecked, can lead to flooding and property damage in the future. These benefits can offer both short-term and long-term value to developers, making SuDS an essential component of every modern housing development.

Bringing SuDS clarity to developers SuDS do not need to feel complex. The right manufacturer partnership can transform them into practical, well-understood, and high-value components of a development. We aim to bridge the gap between planning and practical delivery, ensuring that SMEs can adopt SuDS with confidence.

By embracing the expertise of manufacturers from the start, developers can focus on what they do best – delivering high-quality, sustainable homes while maximising the value of their developments in the process.

Polypipe Building Products has been pioneering SuDS solutions for over two decades, with our systems widely used in UK residential projects of all sizes. With an in-depth understanding of the regulatory landscape, including planning conditions and local authority requirements, we provide developers with the guidance needed to navigate these regulations with ease.

For more information go to www.rdr.link/dbg029

The post Why SuDS are a vital tool in modern housing developments appeared first on PHPD Online.

Grass Concrete explains the key to sustainable practices when specifying grass paving systems.

Today’s wide choice of grass paving systems means that specifiers now have a massive choice of products and specification. As a supplier of grass paving systems for more than fifty years, Grass Concrete sees a strict fit for purpose policy as the key to achieving sustainability in any construction project.

Take for example a daily used access road or housing development car park in daily use; “will the grass cover and then the structure stand up to that sort of regime?” If the application is to slopes, “will it function as an armouring layer and will it offer grip?” These are the sort of challenging questions that that should be asked to ensure a correct specification.

The Grass Concrete policy is to guide clients to the most appropriate system – in-situ-concrete, pre-cast concrete or plastic systems. This strict fit for purpose policy is the key to achieving sustainability in any construction project, with careful consideration of grass paving types, particularly when likely to be subjected to frequent traffic and weights of vehicles.

With a long-established track record of grass paving installations, Grass Concrete is uniquely placed to work closely with housebuilders and architects alike to recommend appropriate systems.

Experienced insight

At Grass Concrete, our 50 years plus of grass paving experience and installations has given us considerable insight into sustainable permeable paving and, more recently, with the attention around Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS). Recent high rainfall and flash flooding puts extreme pressure on the drainage and sewer network which is often unable to cope with this peak demand. SuDs schemes are designed to mitigate these scenarios. Grass Concrete’s view is that Smart Permeability is what is required.

Incorporating SUDS using Grass Concrete’s permeable paving helps mitigate the implications of surface water run-off and its implications for the functioning of the local storm water network.

It’s not simply about getting water from A to B, it is about what you do with it along the way. Smart Permeability, using source control to manage the rate of permeability, both mitigates downstream impact and provides essential root nourishment for grass coverage.

Compare the systems

Sustainable grass cover is best achieved by a system that promotes permeability. The depth and shape of the soil pockets can have a critical part to play. Both Grasscrete and Grassblock offer substantial capacity for soils and root systems to promote maximum grass coverage.

A grass reinforced system can permeate at up to 90% the rate of natural grass and a safe lag time can be achieved. Storing water within the system with low risk of ponding until the ground can naturally re-charge is a significant benefit. Lag time is beneficial in the prevention of flooding and can be extended by introducing an underlying drainage blanket across the full extent of the paved area. The drainage blanket can be used to either attenuate permeation to the water table or be a vehicle for rainwater harvesting.

Fit for purpose policy

Grass Concrete offers both cast-on site Grasscrete and precast Grassblock systems and follows a strict fit-for-purpose policy as the key to achieving sustainability in any construction project.

To find out more, talk to the experts in permeable grass at www.rdr.link/dbe036

The post The key to sustainable practices appeared first on PHPD Online.

It’s not bye-bye to plastic anytime soon. Martin Lambley, Senior Product Manager for Urban Climate Resilience at Wavin, explains how plastic can still be sustainable, particularly when recycled and paired with green infrastructure.  

Plastic has undoubtedly received a bad rap within sustainability discussions, particularly when it comes to virgin plastic and its association with single-use products, irresponsible disposal and pollution. As the global focus on environmental responsibility intensifies, plastic’s reputation suffers. However, its role in sustainability is more nuanced than commonly perceived, while single-use plastics contribute significantly to environmental harm, not all plastic is equal – especially when it comes to utilising recycled materials used in long-term applications. 

Here, Martin Lambley, Senior Product Manager for Urban Climate Resilience at Wavin, explains how recycled plastics, paired with green infrastructure are transforming urban infrastructure – making cities stronger and more resilient for the future.  

A crucial distinction – single-use vs. long-term applications  

Across Europe alone, the construction sector accounts for around 20% of all plastic use – a figure set to rise significantly by 2050. This makes it a critical area for rethinking how materials are used and reused. Recycled plastics offer a clear opportunity to shift the sector toward a more circular, low-waste model, particularly in long-term infrastructure.   

It’s important to understand the role of plastic in water management, and to distinguish between single-use plastics and those used for long-term, purpose-driven applications. Single-use plastics – for example those found in single-use straws and bottles – have rightfully earned a reputation as an unnecessary pollutant. But not all plastics are created the same. 

Across the built environment, plastics are increasingly being repurposed into materials designed for both longevity and durability. When recycled, plastics can be transformed into high-performance products used in long-term infrastructure applications – a stark contrast to the short-lived nature of single-use items. These durable products, used in surface water management and robust drainage systems, help address the extreme challenges facing urban centres, contributing to more resilient and future-proofed environments.  

Recycled plastics and the circular economy  

The circular economy – a model built around reusing materials and minimising waste – is now central to sustainable development. Recycled plastics have an important role to play in this system, particularly when used in long-term infrastructure solutions. 

For example, recycled plastics are widely used in surface water management systems such as sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), where they play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and the improvement of water quality. A key example is Wavin’s AquaCell NG attenuation tank. Made up of 100% recycled plastic, it repurposes materials that would otherwise contribute to waste and landfill, turning them into valuable solutions designed to manage excess surface water. At the end of its lifespan, the tank can be fully recycled, supporting a closed-loop system and reinforcing circular economy principles. 

Adopting recycled plastics in this way provides a significant opportunity for the built environment to shift towards a more sustainable, circular model. As urban centres continue to grow, integrating recycled materials into infrastructure reduces reliance on virgin or finite resources.    

The key role of hybrid solutions 

One of the most effective ways to maximise the potential of recycled plastics is through hybrid systems that combine green infrastructure with engineered solutions.  

It’s no secret that SuDS are a crucial defence against the growing challenges our urban centres face, such as intense rainfall and flash flooding. Today, SuDS refers to a broad range of solutions which work together to manage surface water sustainably, protecting both infrastructure and the environment.  

For developers, the optimal approach is often a hybrid system which blends both engineered and green SuDS together. Green solutions – like swales and ponds – can naturally absorb and filter water, whilst also promoting biodiversity. Meanwhile, engineered elements like attenuation tanks provide controlled water release to effectively mimic the natural water cycle. These engineered solutions like Wavin’s AquaCell NG attenuation tank, made from 100% recycled plastic, offer a prime example of how recycled materials can be incorporated into such systems. These tanks support long-term water management while reinforcing the principles of the circular economy, making them an effective and sustainable choice for urban infrastructure. 

Together, these hybrid systems protect infrastructure from flood risks and enhance the surrounding environment, offering a balanced solution for urban resilience. 

Evaluating long-term value 

Although the upfront cost of recycled plastic products may seem higher than traditional, virgin materials, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. The economic cost of flooding – including property damage, infrastructure loss, and disruptions to local economies – are increasing and often exceed the cost of preventative SuDS. With flooding causing over £2.4 billion in damage annually, investing in these solutions proves far more cost-effective in the long run.  

Plastic has long been associated with overconsumption, waste, and pollution. However, by repurposing plastic waste into recycled materials for use in urban infrastructure, we can unlock its potential to strengthen our cities. Recycled plastics, particularly in surface water management systems, offer durable, high-performance solutions that enhance urban resilience, contributing to more sustainable and future-proof environments. 

For more information on Wavin’s AquaCell NG, click here.

The post Wavin: Can plastic still be sustainable? appeared first on PHPD Online.

Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are rapidly shifting from an optional feature to a fundamental part of responsible groundworks. PHPD talks to Bioscapes about the rising SuDS responsibility and how forward thinking housebuilders can best benefit from it.

Although Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 has yet to be enforced in England, the need to tackle flood risk is pressing. The Environment Agency warns that by 2050, around eight million properties in England one in four – could be at risk of flooding, with climate change accelerating the threat.

Even without legislative mandates, developers face a clear imperative to build in resilience from the ground up. And the house-buying public is taking note – more environmentally aware than ever, today’s buyers increasingly expect flood-conscious, biodiversity-supporting developments from forward-thinking builders.

SuDS don’t just manage water – they deliver broader environmental and community value. Built around four core principles – water attenuation, water quality, biodiversity and amenity – SuDS offer measurable benefits when integrated from the outset.

From rain gardens to permeable paving, early integration supports compliance, enhances liveability, and boosts site value. Among the most practical options is the BioScapes® SuDS planter: a cost-effective, ground-level, off-the-shelf solution combining rainwater management with biodiversity enhancement. Proven to deliver a 7-fold biodiversity uplift, it is already being widely adopted by local authorities and water companies to meet dual objectives with minimal disruption.

The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, and a recent Royal Town Planning Institute investigation reveals many developments fall short of their biodiversity commitments, despite the growing legislative push for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).

Without real interventions – such as wildflower-rich swales, wetland zones, and pollinator planting – projects risk reputational and planning setbacks. SuDS offer natural alignment with BNG by combining drainage with habitat creation.

To support this, BioScapes Limited provides ecology consultancy services – helping developers assess existing site biodiversity and outline achievable, cost effective strategies for net gain. Engaging this expertise early can strengthen planning applications and reduce the risk of redesign or delays.

According to Terry Smithson, Head of Nature-based Solutions at BioScapes, embracing SuDS now offers a distinct edge:

“While many in the industry wait for Schedule 3 to be enacted, forward-thinking developers are already weaving SuDS into their groundworks. Doing so not only demonstrates environmental leadership but also pre-empts future compliance, unlocks permissions more easily and builds flood resilient places that stand the test of time.”

These systems also serve as standout sales features – green spaces and visible sustainability credentials resonate strongly with modern buyers.

There’s a common misconception that installing nature-based solutions is difficult to implement or costly when actually, they can provide cost savings. Defra research showed that in new build projects SuDS may be 30% cheaper than standard drainage.

In a changing climate, the real question is not if SuDS should be included—but how soon. Even without legal enforcement, the case is clear: integrated, sustainable drainage is no longer optional.

By incorporating SuDS from the outset complemented by ecological design and expert planning support – developers can mitigate flood risks, deliver biodiversity gains and meet the expectations of both regulators and residents. In doing so, they’re not just building homes – they’re building responsibly for the future.

For more information on BioScapes click here.

Sources:
¹ Environment Agency flood risk projections, 2025
² RTPI: Are developers in England delivering ecological enhancements required by planning permissions?

The post BioScapes: The rising SuDS responsibility appeared first on PHPD Online.

Richard Eddy, category manager of underground and utilities at Polypipe Building Products, discusses the potential of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for modern housebuilding.

Climate change and the increase in urban flooding have put significant pressure on the UKs ageing sewage infrastructure. The need for effective, innovative drainage solutions has never been greater.

Sustainable drainage systems have been designed to tackle these challenges. Unlike conventional drainage solutions that typically direct stormwater into sewers and watercourses, SuDS mimic natural processes to manage rainfall by storing water, allowing it to infiltrate into the ground, or slowly release it. This approach not only lessens the impact of urban development on the natural water cycle but reduces the strain on our sewer systems.

Yet, despite sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) being available for some time, the adoption of these systems has been slow. To increase uptake across the industry, we must understand the barriers preventing the adoption of SuDs, and the legislative changes set to make these systems a mandatory part of new residential projects.

There are many benefits to SuDS, the most significant being that they mitigate urban flooding by reducing the runoff entering sewer systems during heavy rainfall, which improves water quality by naturally filtering out pollutants. On top of this, SuDS can also enhance biodiversity and urban green spaces by being incorporated into the landscape through green roofs, rain gardens and permeable pavements, all of which contribute to the cooling of urban environments by counteracting the urban heat island effect.

Therefore, by integrating SuDS as standard, housebuilders will be able to align with broader environmental goals and legislative requirements while meeting the needs and expectations of future residents. However, despite their benefits, SuDS adoption in new developments faces several barriers. The UK’s fragmented regulatory landscape, with varying local standards, causes confusion and deters developers with complex approval processes. Ambiguous SuDS definitions and guidelines complicate project integration, making regulatory compliance and achieving environmental benefits difficult.

The lack of technical expertise in hydrology and site-specific conditions requires bespoke approaches, raising concerns about high upfront costs, particularly for retrofitting sites. Historically, this has deterred developers despite potential long-term savings. If we are to overcome these obstacles, we need cohesive policies, clear guidance and more support for developers via technical resources, specialist support, training and even financial incentives. Promoting sustainable drainage practices and addressing climate change challenges requires cross-party collaboration.

SuDS adoption in the UK is heavily influenced by the legislative framework for water management and urban development, notably the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. This legislation promotes SuDS use by mandating sustainable surface water management in new and redeveloped sites.

Schedule 3 of the Act, yet to be fully implemented in England, mandates SuDS for all new residential developments over 100mÇ. Its introduction in England, following Wales’ 2019 implementation, standardises SuDS use and integrates them into broader planning processes. Developers must integrate SuDS considerations from the earliest planning stages to comply with these regulations. This involves navigating complex approval processes, adapting designs to site-specific conditions, and maintaining SuDS long-term.

Effective SuDS implementation depends on understanding a site’s unique characteristics, such as environmental conditions, soil types, topography and hydrology. These factors determine how water behaves, impacting the suitability and effectiveness of various SuDS components. Customising SuDS solutions to fit the unique conditions of a site ensures that they will complement the natural water cycle. This approach not only maximises the performance of the drainage system but also can lead to cost savings over time. By aligning the drainage strategy closely with the site’s natural characteristics, it’s possible to reduce the need for extensive engineered solutions, which can be more expensive to install and maintain.

A site-specific approach to SuDS encourages a more thoughtful and integrated planning process, requiring collaboration among developers, planners and engineers to create solutions that respect and enhance the natural environment. It’s clear that widespread SuDS adoption in the UK is crucial for mitigating flood risks, enhancing urban resilience, and promoting environmental sustainability.

This will only be possible through effective collaboration between the drainage sector, policymakers, housebuilders, and developers to promote SuDS and address misconceptions about costs, maintenance, and feasibility. Highlighting successful case studies, providing cost-benefit analyses, and offering technical support can build industry confidence in SuDS benefits and implementation.

As climate change intensifies, the need for a sustainable, resilient future becomes increasingly critical. Prioritising SuDS in housing development projects invests in the future of communities, ensuring they can handle environmental challenges.

The post Polypipe Building Products discusses SuDS for modern housebuilding appeared first on PHPD Online.

SME housing developers who are struggling to navigate the complexities of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDS) legislation need look no further than BioScapes

You might think that soil and the grass that grows through it are basic commodities but we’ve always pushed the boundaries of performance and innovation,” enthuses Terry Smithson, Head of Nature Based Solutions at BioScapes – part of the Rolawn Group. “At the same time we want to deliver easily adoptable and very practical solutions for our housebuilder clients.” It’s an attitude which positions the ecology and horticultural specialists as the perfect partner in a new and often unfamiliar legislative landscape.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) as a concept has been a long time coming but that doesn’t mean that the confusion around compliance has abated, especially amongst smaller developers. In January of 2024, legislation was introduced to compel housebuilders who were constructing 10 or more units to make a 10 per cent improvement in BNG, with some local authorities asking for as much as 20 per cent. In April 2024, that requirement was extended to smaller new build schemes of one house and upwards. In effect, there are now very few exemptions.

So, how does that translate on the ground? Essentially, planning permission will be dependent on an assessment of the level of biodiversity on the land, both prior and post development. This can be achieved on the actual site of the new property, or it can be achieved off-site, whilst there’s a third option of purchasing statutory biodiversity credits.

For a smaller developer, who is invariably focused on a quality build rather than quantity, there are obvious benefits to the on-site approach, not least providing the homeowner with an aesthetically appealing installation through which they can enjoy the acknowledged well-being benefits that engaging with nature brings.

Attractive and creative biodiversity installations will equally offer the added selling point of diversifying a property from the competition.

Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDS)
It’s not just BNG that needs to be taken into account either, because developments with more than one dwelling must now demonstrate that they are implementing Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). The rationale for their implementation including climate change, more frequent extreme weather events, with consequent water run-off and flooding – is well known, but it again begs the question what does it mean in practice?

“As a starting point, the four SuDS pillars are water attenuation, as well as the cleaning of water run-off from impermeable surfaces,” continues Terry. “It also needs to include amenity benefits, and promote biodiversity, with that final point feeding directly back into the BNG legislation.

“Whilst volume housebuilders are prepared for the new BNG and SuDS regimes it’s fair to say that there’s a distinct lack of awareness amongst SME developers,” Terry adds. “Even if they are mindful of what’s required, there’s still a knowledge gap of what solutions they need and where to source them.” Indeed, there has already been criticism from the National Audit Office and the FMB which has cited additional costs and a lack of preparedness on the part of some local authorities.

The message from BioScapes, however, is that it doesn’t have to be a complex or onerous process – and the company has the product range, and expertise, to prove it. “Our units are all-in one solutions that come together to address SuDS management and biodiversity requirements. They look good, promote wellbeing, can be comfortably introduced into relatively small spaces, and are easy to maintain.”

There’s a whole range of BioScapes products that will help housebuilders conform to BNG regulations and the same principles remain consistent throughout.

The most compact on offer is the WildPod Mini®, which brings together ten interconnected habitats in a 35 x 56 x 60cm wooden unit, with the addition of a unique rainwater catcher. Delivered in flat pack form, it’s easy to assemble and position, only requiring the addition of up to 80litres of topsoil and compost, 10litres of clay for the reservoir habitat, and 6litres of deadwood habitat materials. Once in place, you can watch the wildlife colonise a protected ecosystem where species will interact as they would naturally.

At the other end of the scale, the patented BioCube® can be as large as 4m2, is made from recycled steel and plastic, with a modular assembly that again makes for an easy build. This solution has a much longer lifespan and flexibility in terms of what can be added.

Habitats come together in a layered construction which will include a main planting area, zones to attract bee and butterflies, wet habitats and much more.

Between these two is the mid-sized NatureArk®, which is supplied with the habitat materials required, which means only plants need to be added.

“We want our BNG focused products to be plug and play,” continues Terry, “where it’s simply a matter of assembling the box and adding soil and plants. The same ethos is evident with our SuDS and BNG Unit, which is simply attached to the property’s downpipe and is sufficiently compact to be added to any individual home. Moreover, in addition to the products themselves, we can provide support and guidance to smaller developers in particular on exactly what they’ll need.”

“Aside from the regulatory requirements, there’s a real benefit here for the housebuilder,” concludes Terry. “Not only are you making a statement about your green credentials, you’re also welcoming them to their new home with outdoor features that will enhance the build quality.”

The post BioScapes solve BNG and SuDS legislation issues appeared first on PHPD Online.

ACO Water Management is aiding housebuilders and developers in adapting to upcoming legal requirements by launching its guide on sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).

Titled Implementing SuDS: Practical advice, key information and preparing developments for Schedule 3, this guide offers free-to-download support to understand the implications of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010’s Schedule 3 changes.

These changes will mandate SuDS integration into most new schemes in England, expected to take effect later this year.

The guide addresses common questions and discusses SuDS implementation methods, applications in various developments, and different techniques, including nature-based solutions and engineered systems for biodiversity net gain.

More information on SuDS

The post ACO Water Management’s guide to sustainable drainage systems appeared first on PHPD Online.

It has become imperative to balance development with environmental responsibility. As such, recent years have witnessed a rise in innovative solutions, with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) and SuDS soils standing out as key elements. Jason Lock, business development manager at Boughton, explains. 

Jason Lock, business development manager at Boughton

SuDS, as a concept, have already transformed traditional drainage systems by placing the emphasis on ‘green’ and natural approaches to managing surface water runoff. SuDS soils are a crucial component of these new drainage systems, serving as a natural filter and water management system. Unlike conventional impermeable surfaces, SuDS soils allow water to infiltrate, reducing the risk of flooding and pollution. As a result, these soils are playing a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development and enhancing the resilience of urban areas to climate change.

Composition of SuDS soils
SuDS soils are engineered to facilitate water infiltration and improve water quality. Typically, they consist of a mix of carefully selected materials that collectively create a permeable and effective medium for managing stormwater. The composition may include a blend of sand, gravel, organic matter, and engineered soil mixes. The specific ratio varies, based on the site’s characteristics and the desired performance of the SuDS.

How SuDS soils Work

• Infiltration: SuDS soils excel at promoting water infiltration. They allow rainwater to percolate through the soil, reducing surface runoff and preventing the overwhelming of traditional drainage systems during heavy rainfall.
• Filtering: SuDS soils act as natural filters, trapping pollutants and sediments present in stormwater runoff. This filtration process enhances water quality, benefiting both the environment and local ecosystems.
• Retention and delay: By holding and slowly releasing water, SuDS soils help regulate the flow of stormwater. This controlled release minimises the risk of flooding downstream, making SuDS an ideal solution for managing peak flows in urban environments.
• Biodiversity: SuDS soils contribute to the creation of green spaces within urban developments. These areas not only support biodiversity but also provide aesthetic and recreational benefits, fostering a healthier and more enjoyable living environment.

Why SuDS soils should be a top choice

• Cost-effective: SuDS soils can be a cost-effective solution. They offer an alternative to traditional drainage systems, reducing the need for extensive underground infrastructure.
• Regulatory compliance: As environmental regulations become more stringent, integrating SuDS soils into construction projects ensures compliance with sustainability and stormwater management requirements.
• Enhanced value: Green and sustainable features, including SuDS soils, can enhance the appeal properties. Buyers are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly developments that emphasise environmental responsibility and are also encouraged by a scheme’s ostensible protection against flooding and excess runoff.

In the era of sustainable construction, SuDS soils emerge as a valuable tool for housebuilders seeking eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions. By embracing the principles of SuDS, developers can create resilient, environmentally-conscious communities that thrive in harmony with nature. As the demand for sustainable practices grows, SuDS soils stand at the forefront of a green revolution in urban development.

Want to know more?

More about Boughton’s SuDS soil portfolio

The post Digging for victory appeared first on PHPD Online.

Rehau & Hydro International

Ideal for SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) projects, Stormbloc is a stormwater management system launched by Rehau in partnership with Hydro International. This light, cost-effective geocellular attenuation system is designed for landscaped areas, or areas with limited traffic loading such residential driveways.

It comprises of just two main components – the ground element and base plate – avoiding the need for side plates and enabling rapid installation on site. The system is also fully customisable, as the length, width and height are all adaptable to fit the situation. These components are stackable so they are easy to transport and store onsite.

Access is provided by fitting Stormbloc Inspect chambers and constructing a row of Stormbloc Extra blocks through the tank. Hydro-Logic Smart Maintenance technology can also be integrated into the system so that it can be monitored remotely.

For more information, please go to www.rdr.link/xxx

The post Simplified SuDS appeared first on PHPD Online.