Development and flood risk

Published in December 2006, PPS25 sets out the Governments policy on different aspects of land use planning in England. With respect to SUDS, the policy document states that "Regional planning bodies and local authorities should promote the use of SUDS for the management of run-off. Local planning authorities should ensure that their policies and decisions on application support and complement Building Regulations."

Approved Document H3: Rainwater drainage, 2002 states methods of drainage other than connection to a public surface water sewer are encouraged where they are technically feasible.

The Governments water strategy for England,

This document sets out the Governments plans for water in the future, in light of the effects climate change and increasing demand are having on water supply. Chapter 5 deals with surface water drainage and call for "more adaptable drainage systems delivering reduced flood risk, improved water quality and decreasing burdens on the sewer system."

Learning Lessons from the 2007 floods. Sir Michael Pitt.

This report contains over 90 recommendations for better flood risk planning in England and Wales. In December 2008, the Government provided a response to the report. A number of the recommendations concern the use and adoption of SUDS. "Local Surface water management plans (SWMPs) as set out under PPS25 and coordinated by local authorities should provide the basis for managing all local flood risk." The Government response was to support this recommendation and state the intention that Local Authorities will be responsible for adopting and maintaining sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) in the public realm.

Category 4: Surface Water Run-off deals with the management of surface water run-off from developments, the stated aim being: To design housing developments which avoid, reduce and delay the discharge of rainfall to public sewers and watercourses.

This guidance provides best practice guidance on the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) to facilitate their effective implementation within developments.

A report that details the appropriate approach to the successful design and construction of Sustainable Drainage Systems.

Co-sponsored by Marley, this report focuses specifically on the different types of underground geocelluar modular units. It provides guidance on test methods, structural design and the practical issues that should be considered in the design phase of a project.