East Sussex SuDS

Meristem Design is collaborating with East Sussex County Council (ESCC) to deliver bespoke Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) installations across schools in the Eastbourne and Southern Wealden region. The initiative is part of the Blue Heart programme, supported and funded by Defra, Southern Water, Environment Agency, Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme (FCRIP) and the Department for Education. The goal is to mitigate the significant surface water flooding risk in the urbanised area while educating students on sustainability, water management, and climate resilience.

The SuDS for school projects aims to address surface water flooding in the school environment through innovative, co-designed SuDS features such as vibrant SuDS planters to remove rainwater from overburdened drainage systems. Through engaging pupils in the importance of sustainable water management, the Blue Heart programme also aims to foster a generation of environmental stewards.

The Blue Heart: SuDS for Schools programme aims to install Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in a total of 32 schools across Eastbourne and Southern Wealden. These bespoke installations address each school’s unique environmental needs, while fostering student engagement and climate education. The project is being delivered in multiple phases over several years. Phase 1 is complete and we are currently delivering Phase 2. Meristem Design have so far completed installations at: 

• Ratton School Academy
• Stafford Junior School
• Pevensey and Westham Primary School
• Shinewater School
• Parkland Infant and Junior School
• Roselands County Infant School
• Cavendish School

Blue Heart’s study area of Eastbourne and Southern Wealden is considered to be at significant risk of surface water flooding. This flood risk is heightened by heavy urbanisation, combined drainage systems that are over capacity, flood damage and extreme weather conditions. 

The SuDS for Schools project is more than just installations; it’s about engaging students with water, sustainability and the importance of our resources. With the design of the bespoke SuDS systems inspired by school pupils, the installations help engage the children through vibrant and interactive features. Meristem have installed multiple SuDS planters designed to capture and filter rainwater runoff, preventing flood risk and improving water quality. The new green spaces help to enhance the aesthetics of the school grounds while supporting local wildlife through additional features such as plant covered pergolas and bold coloured custom planters. 

The SuDS for Schools project delivers dual benefits of flood resilience and educational enrichment. By removing surface water from the combined drainage system, these installations help alleviate local flooding issues, protecting schools and nearby communities. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience and environmental awareness while having a fun and playful time. 

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) is working with partners including Eastbourne Borough Council, Wealden District Council, Southern Water, Environment Agency, Pevensey and Cuckmere Water Level Management Board and the University of Exeter. By teaching practical solutions for climate resilience, the project supports a lasting shift towards sustainable living and water management practices in East Sussex.

Overall, the Blue Heart: SuDS for Schools programme not only mitigates flood risks but also nurtures a generation of informed, empowered, and environmentally conscious individuals who will lead the way in building resilient communities.