Delivered in line with the London Assembly’s ‘Dig Once’ approach, the primary goal of the scheme was to aid flood risk alleviation by capturing water and slowing drainage speed to ease pressure on local drainage systems. The project also aimed to capture the community’s interest by creating an interactive and educational space to spread SuDS awareness and support the council’s progression towards collective flood resilience.

The project was located on the kerbside of a junction in Mitcham on Lower Green West, consisting of a 54.8m² rain garden supported by two planters that replaced a pedestrian guard rail and provided a surface for educational features. The scheme made the most out of the small, constrained street space by incorporating play features, two bug hotels, and both educational and interactive signage to create a multifunctional SuDS installation. The rain gardens serves as an extension of the nearby cricket green helping to create a ‘green route’ through the borough.

To deliver a space that both manages surface water and engages the community, we designed a multifunctional rain garden that integrates SuDS features with playful, educational elements. Our approach ensured the scheme addressed flood risk while fostering local awareness, biodiversity and interaction with the landscape.

The completed rain garden has delivered a range of environmental, educational and social benefits for the local community. Improvements in surface water management and biodiversity help support climate resilience, while the interactive features offer an engaging space that encourages community wellbeing and connection.