Useful article in New Civil Engineer
Water industry experts have expressed dismay at the news that mandatory sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for developments over 100m2 is not being introduced, despite the Department for Food, Rural Affairs and Environment’s (Defra’s) promise.
Despite the government saying that Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 would be introduced at some time in 2024, NCE revealed that the regulation has not been adopted.
Photo credit: Pascal Saur
As the UK’s disjointed and ageing sewerage infrastructure battles with higher intensity rainfall resulting from climate change, the risk of flooding in urban areas has increased dramatically. One way to combat this is through SuDS, such as rain gardens, green/blue roofs and detention basins.
In densely populated urban areas, where many surfaces are sealed by built structures and paving, natural infiltration and drainage are restricted. SuDS work by providing nature-based solutions and alternatives to channelling surface water run-off into nearby watercourses through pipes and sewers.
Retired Yorkshire Water drainage strategy manager Brian Smith believes that given the regulation has not been adopted in the previously announced timescale, “there is no sign of it being enacted any time soon”.
“This is hard to believe and really quite ludicrous,” he continued. “The impact of this delay is a serious cause for concern and leaves developers, local authorities and water companies with no clear guidance or timescale for mandatory SuDS requirements.”
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