A flood risk assessment for a school and a block of residential flats on the…
Sustainable drainage solutions designed by the experts
Utilise sustainable solutions that meet the planning requirements for your project
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are the best and most environmentally friendly way to manage the quantity and quality of surface water drainage from the built environment.
Delivery of SuDS is a primary requirement for all developments within the planning system. All planning applications for major development need a SuDS strategy and, in many cases, even minor developments require serious consideration of drainage at the planning stage.
We have the right people and the right tools to help you achieve a sustainable solution to the drainage needs of your site, and meet the necessary planning requirements.
Request a call back to discuss your sustainable drainage requirements or any other enquiry with the team at RAB.
HOW IT WORKS
Drainage Strategy & Design Process
Initial Assessment and Planning
Our journey begins with a comprehensive assessment of your development project’s drainage needs. We work closely with you to understand your site’s unique requirements and objectives, whilst also factoring in the local authority’s targets.
Sustainable Drainage Strategy Development
Building on the initial assessment, we craft a Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) strategy tailored to your development. This strategy encompasses the four essential pillars of SuDS: managing water quantity, enhancing water quality, providing amenity value, and promoting biodiversity. Our team leverages its expertise and tools to design a multifunctional drainage scheme that not only meets planning requirements but also maximises economic benefits.
Detailed Drainage Design
Once the SuDS strategy is approved at the planning stage, we proceed to the detailed drainage design phase. This design is usually a condition of planning consent and serves as the blueprint for your site’s surface water drainage. It includes specific requirements, construction phasing, and detailed drawings. Our experienced engineers ensure that the design aligns with local authority standards and fulfils the planning authority’s needs while meeting the expectations of your contractors.
Regulatory Compliance and Local Authorities
Throughout the process, we remain attentive to the ever-evolving standards and targets set by local authorities. We ensure that your sustainable drainage design aligns with these requirements. Our team handles the necessary interactions with regulatory bodies, streamlining the approval process and ensuring your project complies with all relevant regulations.
CONTACT US
Ready to discuss your project with the experts?
Our friendly and professional team are available to answer any queries you may have about erosion control and protection measures. Let us arrange a quote for you – free of charge.
WHY CHOOSE US
Working with RAB
A passionate and dedicated team
All of the specialist knowledge required to deliver the best solutions for your project, in house.
National project coverage
Thanks to multiple office locations, we’re able to serve clients nationwide. We even deliver projects internationally.
A highly bespoke service offering
Your circumstances and requirements are unique, so we tailor our services to achieve better project outcomes.
Leading the industry
We’re a team of innovators, always keen to challenge existing methods to achieve the best possible results.
15 years of quality
RAB have built an established reputation for high quality work and outstanding customer service.
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Sustainable Drainage FAQs
SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) are innovative and environmentally friendly approaches to managing surface water drainage from urban areas. They aim to mimic natural drainage processes by storing, slowing, and cleaning water runoff before it enters watercourses or sewers.
The main objectives of SuDS are to manage the quantity and quality of surface water runoff, reduce the risk of flooding, protect water resources, enhance biodiversity, create amenity value, and promote sustainable development.
SuDS systems differ from traditional drainage by focusing on natural processes and techniques, such as permeable surfaces, swales, detention basins, and green roofs. They aim to slow down and treat runoff rather than rapidly channeling it away, which is common in conventional drainage systems.
SuDS play a vital role in sustainable development by minimizing the environmental impact of urbanization. They help reduce flood risk, prevent pollution, conserve water resources, enhance green spaces, and promote a more resilient and sustainable urban environment.
SuDS systems typically include features like permeable surfaces (e.g., permeable pavements), detention basins, green roofs, swales, filter strips, and wetlands. These components work together to manage surface water in an environmentally friendly manner.
SuDS may be mandatory for new developments, depending on local regulations and planning requirements. Major developments often require a SuDS strategy, and some regions or countries have specific regulations in place.
Retrofitting SuDS into existing developments or urban areas is possible and often involves creative solutions. These can include adding permeable surfaces, green infrastructure, and localized SuDS features to manage runoff more sustainably.
Implementing SuDS in urban areas can lead to reduced flood risk, improved water quality, enhanced green spaces, increased biodiversity, lower maintenance costs, and a more attractive and sustainable living environment.
Many regions have design guidelines and standards for SuDS, which may vary. In some cases, international standards like CIRIA’s SuDS Manual offer comprehensive guidance for SuDS design and implementation.
Flood Risk Assessment and Detailed Drainage Design for a small residential development in Nuneaton
RAB were asked to provide a Flood Risk Assessment and detailed surface water and foul…
Flood risk and surface water drainage assessments for 8 sites in Shropshire to obtain Code for Sustainable Homes credits (SUR1 & SUR2)
The Code for Sustainable Homes (The Code) is an environmental assessment method for rating and…
Complex 2D hydraulic modelling using ISIS/TUFLOW to assess flood risk and a flood defence scheme for a major factory in Birmingham
After a major flood incident in 2007, resulting in a multi-million pound insurance claim, in order to…
Independent Property Level Flood Protection surveys for individual householders and communities
We are authors of the “Homeowners Guide to Flood Resilience” and members of the Flood…
A conceptual surface water SUDS drainage design for a proposed school in Bedfordshire
RAB Consultants undertook a Flood Risk Assessment for the proposed construction of a Bedford Academy…
A detailed sustainable drainage design for a proposed commercial facility in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire
RAB Consultants undertook a Flood Risk Assessment for the construction of a new 1ha storage…
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Related Services
Drainage Strategy & Design often forms only part of the journey our clients take with us.
Learn more about the many services RAB offer to help increase resilience and reduce flood risk.
If you can’t find the service that you’re looking for, we might still be able to help. Get in touch to discuss your requirements today.
Outstanding service
“Yes we have got it through, thanks very much for getting that turned around in time!! Great job. Many thanks for all your help, I may be back in touch if we need a hand with conditions.”