Sustainability is today a major factor within the construction industry, influenced by both planning guidance and legislation. In most cases, we can see that the key drivers behind this change are the conservation and management of two of our most precious commodities – energy and water.
At the same time, the increasing urbanisation of the country has created a large area of impermeable surfaces with roads, roofs, driveways and patios all playing a part. This has resulted in a much faster flow rate of surface water from a built up area than in a rural area which is what generally triggers a flood event.
It is for this reason that Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) are becoming an essential component of our built environment. However, in order to be classed as a SUDS development it must add value in three defined areas:
It must reduce the volume and rate of surface water run-off leaving the site – this is also known as attenuation.
It must minimise the levels of pollution passing into the watercourses at run off, therefore preserving and enhancing the aquatic environment.
It must enhance amenity, by preserving the environment and wildlife habitats.
Many systems are capable of attenuating the flow of water but all three areas need to be addressed as part of a SUDS project – our project designers can help you to achieve this with your next project.
Read more about the New Legislations and how to act responsibly with surface water
One form of Surface Water Management system now available is Permeable Paving