This collaboration marks another step in the borough’s commitment to managing surface water sustainably and embedding climate resilience into everyday learning environments.
Since 2024, Meristem have been working with Hammersmith & Fulham Council to install a range of SuDS planters in schools across the borough to boost flood resilience and create greener, safer learning environments for children. Following on from last autumn where we installed 6 SuDS Planters at Old Oak Primary, we have now completed a further 29 SuDS planters across 3 schools - Old Oak, Wormholt Park and Flora Gardens. A further 13 planters were installed at Holy Cross Catholic Primary in February 2026.
Why these SuDS planters matter:
Commissioned by the borough as part of its Climate and Ecology Strategy, each installation was tailored to the needs and concerns of the school to ensure the planters integrated well into the infrastructure and performed at their best. With this in mind, the project delivers multiple benefits:
- Reduces flood risk by capturing and filtering rainwater from roof downpipes
- Supports biodiversity with native, drought-tolerant species like salvia, scabiosa, and herbs
- Provides pupils with hands-on learning about the water cycle, climate change, and sustainable design
- Gives teachers tools and guidance to maintain the planters for long-term educational use
- Contribute a total attenuation volume of 13,134 litres to the borough’s surface water management
Planting Workshops
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was involving pupils and teachers directly in the planting process. We ran interactive planting sessions to encourage children to learn about the water cycle, climate change and the role of sustainable urban design in strengthening climate resilience.
Additionally, staff received a training and maintenance guidance, ensuring that the planters continue to flourish and deliver educational value long after installation. By installing these SuDS planters and nurturing a sense of ownership with the school children and teachers, the project provides long-term educational value and a focal point for hands-on planting practice and maintenance.
Building a climate - resilient future
This initiative is part of the borough's broader commitment to sustainable water management and climate adaptation. By integrating SuDS into school playgrounds, Hammersmith & Fulham are creating spaces that are not just functional but also engaging, educational and ecologically valuable.
With more planters scheduled in 2026, we are proud to be contributing to the borough's network of SuDS installations and help shape greener, more resilient school grounds.
