Client: London Borough of Bexley
Project: Erith Riverside Gardens Re-development
Introduction
The London Borough of Bexley, in collaboration with Erect Architecture, embarked on an ambitious project to redevelop Erith Riverside Gardens. This initiative aimed to enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal, accessibility, and functionality, creating a vibrant community space that would stand the test of time.
Challenges
The site presented several challenges including:
- Flood Risk: Located behind the Thames flood defences, the potential for flooding was a significant concern.
- Surface Water Flooding: The adjacent road was prone to surface water flooding, necessitating a robust surface water drainage solution.
- Flood Zone 3: Being in a high-risk flood zone required careful planning and adherence to stringent permit requirements.
RAB’s Role
RAB played a crucial role in addressing these challenges. Our expertise in flood risk management, flood risk activity permit requirements, and surface water drainage design principles was instrumental in the project’s success. RAB’s innovative approach included:
- Flood Risk Assessment: Evaluating the potential impact of flooding and developing strategies to mitigate risks.
- Drainage Strategy: Designing a drainage system that not only managed runoff effectively but also enhanced the area’s overall water quality, amenity, and biodiversity.
Solutions
RAB’s proposed drainage scheme was a game-changer. It combined swales, raingardens, and underground storage to manage surface water runoff efficiently. This approach provided multiple benefits:
- Water quantity: Reducing the risk of flooding to the site, while offering capacity to manage road runoff from the adjacent road network thereby, providing betterment.
- Amenity: Creating beautiful, functional spaces for the community.
- Water Quality: Improving the quality of water in the area.
- Biodiversity: Enhancing local biodiversity through thoughtful design.
Achievements
The project successfully navigated the planning process and construction was completed in April 2025. The redevelopment of Erith Riverside Gardens now stands as a testament to RAB’s expertise and innovative solutions. The area is not only more resilient to flooding but also more attractive and accessible to residents and visitors alike.
If you’re looking for a drainage consultant who can deliver exceptional results, RAB is the partner you need. Please feel free to contact our drainage lead Alexandros to discuss all things drainage or if you need support with one of your projects (alexandros@rabconsultants.co.uk).
RAB deliver a wide range of flood risk management and resilience services for both public and private sector organisations. More information is available here on our website, or you can get in touch for an informal discussion on your specific project by email to enquiries@rabconsultants.co.uk or call our head office in Lichfield on 0330 223 6475.
