Case studies

Old Oak Primary School

Greening Old Oak Primary: Sustainable SuDS Planters for School Flood Resilience
Client
Hammersmith and Fulham Council, Old Oak Primary School
Location

Project overview

Meristem Design collaborated with Hammersmith and Fulham Council to deliver six Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) planters in the Key Stage 1 and 2 playgrounds at Old Oak Primary School. These innovative planters were installed thanks to the efforts of the school’s eco group, the Old Oak Climate Champions, who secured funding through successful campaigning. The project addresses the site’s high flood risk while supporting biodiversity and engaging pupils in environmental stewardship.

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Goal

The goal was to mitigate surface water flooding on the school grounds by incorporating eco-friendly SuDS planters. This project aimed to sustainably manage rainwater, improve air quality, and enhance the outdoor environment, making the playgrounds more resilient, greener, and engaging. 

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Scope

The scope included the installation of six bespoke SuDS planters designed to absorb, filter, and retain rainwater. The planters were filled with hardy, drought-tolerant plants such as Achillea, Cyclamen, Helenium, Salvia, and Scabiosa to attract pollinators and improve biodiversity. 

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Solutions

As part of the school SuDS project we implemented a range of sustainable measures to help minimise flood risk, create engaging and educational green spaces and boost biodiversity in the school grounds.

Innovative Flood Management

Installed SuDS planters that capture and control rainwater, reducing the risk of surface water flooding.

Eco-Friendly Plant Selection

Chose herbaceous perennials and drought-tolerant shrubs to ensure low-maintenance greenery while attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and caterpillars.

Pupil Engagement

Involved the Old Oak Climate Champions in planting, fostering a sense of ownership and environmental responsibility among students.

Sustainability Focus

Used biodegradable coconut coir pots to reduce plastic waste and support eco-friendly practices.
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Impact

The installation of SuDS planters at Old Oak Primary School has delivered substantial benefits. This project not only enhanced the school’s flood resilience but also created greener, healthier playgrounds that inspire learning and environmental care.

 

Flood Resilience

The planters help manage rainwater, reducing the likelihood of flash flooding and easing pressure on local drainage systems.

Biodiversity Boost

The planters attract pollinators, birds, and insects, contributing to local biodiversity, particularly with Wormwood Scrubs nearby.

Environmental Awareness

Involving the Old Oak Climate Champions empowered students to engage with sustainability and take pride in their eco-friendly school grounds.

Improved Air Quality

The lush vegetation helps purify the air, creating a healthier environment for pupils and staff.

Sustainable Practices:

The use of coconut coir pots reduces plastic waste, reinforcing the school’s commitment to sustainability.
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Before

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After

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Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School
Old Oak Primary School

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