Why SuDS matter in our cities: The facts behind resilience

21st May 2026

Read time 2 min

Our Approach

Our SuDS solutions come with a bit of extra greenery. Integrating plants into our systems is our speciality, allowing us to enhance the urban environment and public wellbeing through SuDS planters that manage runoff, rain gardens that boost biodiversity, and green roofs that bring greenery to the built environment.

Plant selection at Sutherland Road, Waltham Forest

Our planting schemes often involve hardy plant types and perennials which keeps our SuDS low maintenance and ensures their longevity. We want our efforts to have lasting impact - and with rain gardens shown to absorb up to 30% more water than a typical lawn, we're helping to future-proof our spaces against flooding.

The CIRIA SuDS Manual

To ensure our SuDS reflect our commitment to best practice, we align our designs with the principles set out by CIRIA (2015). Their SuDS Manual sets out 4 key outcomes that guide sustainable drainage in the UK:

Water Quantity – Managing rainfall close to where it falls to reduce flood risk and ease pressure on drainage systems.

Water Quality – Filtering pollutants and sediments naturally before they reach drainage networks and waterways.

Biodiversity – Creating habitats that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

Amenity – Enhancing the appearance and usability of public spaces for people and communities.

By embedding these principles in our designs, we help clients meet their sustainability goals while creating greener, healthier places for us to live and work.

The future of urban drainage

The future of drainage in our cities is green. The UK Government recently updated the national standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems in the UK. Though not yet mandatory, the standards set out stronger guidance for the design, function and maintenance of SuDS in new developments and encourage solutions rooted in nature to inspire more resilient urban spaces that support both people and the planet.

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Why SuDS matter in our cities: The facts behind resilience

Latest blogs

Bringing nature to urban spaces: How our Bio Habitat SuDS Planter boosts biodiversity and engages young minds

How to design inclusive and engaging green spaces with urban greening add-ons and accessories

What's the difference between a Living Wall and a Green Screen?

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