Caterham Flood Alleviation: Rain Gardens for Dome Hill
Client
Surrey County Council
Location
Sectors
Products & Services
Project overview
Meristem Design played a pivotal role in mitigating flooding through introducing SuDS to a residential area in Caterham, Surrey. The Dome Hill Rain Gardens projects integrated sustainable drainage solutions to prevent local flooding and the negative affects it had on nearby homes and the local school. By installing four rain gardens, the initiative has transformed the landscape into a functional, biodiverse and flood resilient green space. The project combined innovative water management techniques with community engagement to enhance the area’s environmental sustainability.
Goal
To reduce surface water flooding, improve local drainage, and increase biodiversity through the installation of sustainable rain gardens.
Scope
The project included the design, excavation, and installation of four rain gardens equipped with Hydrorock water storage technology, alongside the planting of a diverse selection of perennials and native wildflowers to enhance resilience and ecological value.
Challenges
When tackling this project it was important to coordinate around utilities, particularly during the excavation process. Working together with utilities infrastructure, the sites were excavated around gas, electricity and telecoms without disrupting essential services, ensuring there was a grey and green cohesion.
Solutions
Through a combination of drainage enhancements and thoughtful planting, the project has successfully improved the area’s climate resilience and boosted local biodiversity.
Effective Water Management
The rain gardens capture rainwater from roads and pavements, absorbing up to 30% more water than standard lawn grass and preventing local flooding.
Hydrorock integration
Advanced water storage technology reduces pressure on the existing drainage system by storing and gradually releasing excess water.
Resilient Planting Scheme
A carefully curated selection of perennials, including Geranium Rozanne, Geum Mrs Bradshaw, and Verbena Bonariensis Lollipop, ensures long-term durability and seasonal interest.
Impact
The Dome Hill Rain Gardens project has demonstrated how sustainable urban drainage solutions can enhance both flood resilience and community well-being, setting a precedent for future green infrastructure initiatives.
The rain gardens have provided environmental and community benefits by reducing flooding, enhancing biodiversity, protecting soil, and involving residents in sustainable green space stewardship.
Flood Prevention
: By slowing down rainfall absorption, the gardens significantly reduce sewer flooding and surface runoff.
Biodiversity Enhancement
Native wildflowers and pollinator-friendly plants create vital habitats for insects and other wildlife.
Soil Protection
The design minimises erosion, preventing soil displacement and waterlogging during heavy rainfall.
Community Involvement
Residents played an active role in planting, fostering a sense of ownership and ongoing stewardship of the green space.
Before
After
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