The rapid removal of water from urban surfaces is essential if day-to-day city life is to continue normally. But efficient drainage into nearby rivers is only viable if they can cope with the huge volumes of water entering them, otherwise flooding is inevitable
Sustainable drainage systems represent the ultimate in realistic and environmentally friendly replication of natural drainage systems within any built environment.
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
SuDS techniques
Swales
Permeable road and paving surfaces
Infiltration trenches
Bio retention basins
Detention basins
Rain gardens
Green roofs
Benefits of SuDS
Make a spider diagram of the benefits of SuDS:
Slowing down surface water run off and reducing the risk of flooding
Reducing the risk of sewer flooding during heavy rain
Preventing water pollution
Recharging ground water to help prevent drought
Providing valuable habitats to wildlife in urban areas
Creating green space for people in urban areas
SUDS case study: Lamb Drove, Cambourne, Cambridgeshire
Lamb Drove is a residential development of 35 affordable homes.
The project intended to demonstrate that SuDS are a viable and attractive alternative to more traditional forms of drainage and flood management in urban areas
SUDS case study: Lamb Drove, Cambourne, Cambridgeshire
Project started in 2004.
Residents moved in 2006.
The aim was to reduce flood risk to a 1:100 year return period (with an extra 20% allowance for probable climate change).
The project has won awards for its sustainability.