New government legislation that will affect planning applications is expected to be implemented in 2024. The legislation relates to Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and will, according to the government, “reduce the risk of surface water flooding, pollution and help alleviate the pressures on our traditional drainage and sewerage systems”.
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) have long been recognised by civil engineers as an important way to manage surface water, manage flood risk, improve water quality, improve biodiversity and provide amenity benefits (the four pillars of SuDS).
Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act (2010) provides a framework for the approval and adoption of drainage systems, a sustainable drainage system approving body within unitary and county councils, and national standards on the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of sustainable drainage systems for the lifetime of the development.
Following the publication of the review, regulations and processes for the creation of sustainable drainage systems at new developments will now be devised. Implementation of the new approach is expected during 2024.
Request a call back to discuss how RAB can help your development comply with Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act.
HOW WE CAN HELP
Our experienced team of engineers are increasingly being commissioned by local authorities to provide flood risk expertise for planning applications. This includes the technical review of the drainage and flood risk aspect of planning applications including the discharge of relevant conditions.
RAB also provide an expert technical resource to support the Lead Local Flood Authority Statutory Consultee role for both major planning applications and minor applications, including pre-application discussions, outline and full applications, reserved matters, and discharge of conditions. We can also attend online meetings with applicants when required.
RAB have a team of experienced engineers who are able to develop a SuDS network (from the master planning stage all the way through to detailed design), which meets the four pillars of SuDS and the ever more stringent targets of local authorities, following the upcoming enactment of Schedule 3.
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Our friendly and professional team are available to answer any queries you may have about Schedule 3 and arrange a quote for you – free of charge.
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As areas become increasingly developed and urbanised, the natural runoff of surface water is
restricted. Sustainable drainage systems, also known as ‘SuDS’ are the best and most
environmentally friendly way to manage surface water.
SuDS are now considered an integral part of the planning application process. This affects all
developments ranging from large commercial developments down to small residential projects. RAB have experience and expertise to help with all aspects of SuDS including:
Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act (2010) provides a framework for the approval
and adoption of drainage systems, a sustainable drainage system approving body within unitary and county councils, and national standards on the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of sustainable drainage systems for the lifetime of the development.
Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 was enacted in Wales 1 May 2018.
A new approach to sustainable drainage was announced by the UK government in January 2023,
following pressure from industry to act now.
The legislation relating to sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) will, according to the government,
“reduce the risk of surface water flooding, and pollution and help alleviate the pressures on our
traditional drainage and sewerage systems”.
The move follows an open letter, sent to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in December, where industry
experts “strongly urged” him to implement Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act
2010. According to the letter to the prime minister, the SuDS part of the act was “relaxed” in 2014
and high-quality SuDS have not been made mandatory so far due to “misconceptions on cost and applicability”.
“The [SuDS] approach could have been normalised as a standard good practice many years ago.
“Please do not waste any more time; implement Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management
Act 2010 further to the current government review,” the letter ends.
As well as Balmforth, the letter has been signed by a large cohort of experts including Terry Fuller,
chief executive of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management, Christine
McGourty, CEO of Water UK, and Professor Jim Hall, professor of climate and environmental risks at Oxford University.
Following the publication of the review, regulations and processes for the creation of sustainable
drainage systems at new developments will now be devised. Implementation of the new approach is expected during 2024.
The Government will now give consideration to how Schedule 3 will be implemented, subject to final decisions on scope, threshold and process, while also being mindful of the cumulative impact of new regulatory burdens on the development sector. This will include a public consultation later this year, which will collect views on the impact assessment, national standards and statutory instruments.
Expertise: Our team comprises talented professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in SuDS design. We stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices to ensure our designs are both efficient and environmentally friendly.
Tailored Solutions: We understand that each project is unique. That’s why we take a customized
approach, carefully considering the specific requirements and constraints of your site. Our goal is to create a SuDS design that seamlessly integrates with your surroundings and meets your project goals.
Environmental Focus: We are committed to preserving our planet’s natural resources. Our
sustainable drainage systems prioritize water conservation, pollutant reduction, and biodiversity
enhancement. With our designs, you can be confident that you are contributing to a greener and
more sustainable future.
Comprehensive Review: In addition to design services, we also offer thorough reviews of existing
drainage systems to identify areas for improvement. Whether your project needs a fresh design or
an upgrade, our team will provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of your system.
Client Satisfaction: Our clients’ satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to establish strong
relationships with our clients, ensuring effective communication, transparent processes, and timely project delivery. We are here to support you every step of the way. Ready to embrace sustainable drainage systems and make a positive impact on the environment?
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DISCOVER MORE
A sustainable drainage strategy 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.
“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.”
