Case studies

Dome Hill Rain Gardens in Surrey

Caterham Flood Alleviation: Rain Gardens for Dome Hill

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.

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.

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.

Client

Surrey County Council

Location

Sectors

Local Authorities

Products & Services

Design

Before

After

Featured products, landscapes & services

Rain Gardens

Transforming surface runoff into a sustainable solution, rain gardens capture rainfall before it enters the piped network and either releases it slowly into the network or allows it to infiltrate into the ground, preventing flooding.

Design

We specialise in designing beautiful, sustainable urban greening solutions and products that bring nature into public, commercial and residential spaces. From concept to final design, we work closely with clients to ensure that every element is crafted to meet their unique needs, aesthetic preferences, and sustainability goals.

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If you like what you've seen in our case study and want to learn more about how this could work in your setting, please get in touch.

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Dome Hill Rain Gardens in Surrey

Effective Water Management

Hydrorock integration

Resilient Planting Scheme

Flood Prevention

Biodiversity Enhancement

Soil Protection

Community Involvement

Before

After

Featured products, landscapes & services

Rain Gardens

Design

Get in touch

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