BALI reaffirms stance towards SuDS amidst recent flooding
In light of the severe flooding and heavy rainfall that has affected communities across the UK in this late September of 2024, the Association is calling on the Government for a renewed focus on Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) as a critical solution to combat increasing flood risks in urban and suburban areas. The Association is urging policymakers, developers, and local authorities to take immediate steps to incorporate SuDS into future urban planning and infrastructure to better manage surface water and protect homes, businesses, and public spaces from the destructive impacts of extreme flooding events.
A timely response to a growing crisis
Along with recent flooding this year, the floods of recent days has shown once again that the UK’s urban and suburban areas are increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather, with drainage systems struggling to cope with the volume of rainwater. Chief Executive Wayne Grills expressed concern over the integration of SuDS in both new developments and existing urban and suburban landscapes, stressing that conventional drainage infrastructure is no longer enough to protect communities.
"The September floods have brought the challenges of inadequate drainage into sharp focus. Our existing urban and suburban environments are not as well equipped as they used to be to handle the intense and unpredictable rainfall patterns we’re experiencing more frequently. Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems offer an essential, long-term solution, helping to alleviate pressure on traditional drainage networks while delivering environmental and social benefits.”
SuDS replicate natural processes by allowing rainwater to infiltrate into the ground or be stored and released slowly, reducing surface water flooding. When designed thoughtfully, they also create attractive and biodiverse green spaces that enhance urban and suburban living environments.
Beyond flood management: the broader benefits of SuDS
The Association believes that SuDS should be viewed not only as a tool for flood mitigation but as a key element in the UK’s broader climate resilience strategy, highlighting how SuDS can contribute to multiple policy goals, including biodiversity, air quality and urban greening.
"SuDS offer benefits that go far beyond flood prevention,”
BALI Technical Officer, Owen Baker added:
"They contribute to stormwater management, support wildlife habitats in developed areas, and provide green spaces that improve the health and well-being of urban and suburban populations. As we face an increasingly uncertain climate future, it is vital that our industry integrate these systems into urban planning and retrofitting projects to ensure our cities and towns are more resilient, sustainable, and liveable."
Addressing policy and regulatory gaps
The recent rainfall and resulting flooding underlines the need for urgent action at a national and local level. Despite the benefits of SuDS being widely recognised, the Association stresses that SuDS remain underutilised in many urban developments. The association is calling for clearer regulatory frameworks, greater incentives for developers to incorporate SuDS, and stronger requirements for their inclusion in planning applications.
The role of landscapers in delivering SuDS
As experts in the creation of sustainable, natural landscapes, landscapers play a crucial role in designing and delivering effective SuDS. Their expertise in integrating SuDS into the wider urban and suburban environment ensures that these systems not only function as efficient drainage solutions but also enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of public spaces.
"Landscapers are at the forefront of building climate-resilient cities. Their knowledge of soil, plant life, and natural water management systems is essential to the success of SuDS."
said Chief Executive Wayne Grills. He continued:
“As the UK grapples with increasing rainfall and more frequent flooding, our industry stands ready to work collaboratively with local authorities, developers, and environmental bodies to ensure that sustainable drainage becomes a cornerstone of future urban development.”
Looking ahead: advocating for a greener, resilient future
The Association remains committed to leading the conversation on SuDS and advocating for greener, more resilient urban and suburban planning with the Government. The Association will be engaging with Government bodies, industry leaders, and local authorities and communities to promote policies that prioritise SuDS in urban and suburban environments, ensuring they are designed and implemented in a way that delivers long-term benefits to people and the environment.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the Association is looking to host a series of workshops and policy forums aimed at building consensus on the importance of SuDS in addressing the UK’s flooding crisis. These events will bring together key stakeholders from across the industry to share best practices, explore innovative design solutions, and discuss how SuDS can be integrated into national and local planning frameworks. The aim is to bring this momentum of joint working and case studies to further Government support and intervention in this critical area.
Please get in touch with the Association if you would like to share any thoughts and experiences on working with SuDS.