Sustainable Drainage Systems

The benefits of using SUDS in terms of minimizing flood risk are now well recognised by local authorities,county councils and national government (such as the GDSDS - Greater Dublin Strategic Drainage Strategy in the Republic of Ireland and - Planning Policy Statement 15 Planning & Flood Risk in Northern Ireland) which promote and endorse the use of SUDS on all new development.In addition correctly designed permeable pavements can provide petrol / oil interception in accordance with PPG3 (Pollution Prevention Guidelines) without the need for expensive conventional separators.

With increasing pressure on developers to place high density housing on sites, this will inevitably lead to more hard surfaces. Research has shown that permeable pavements are one of the most space efficient SuDS techniques, and yet further research shows their cost effectiveness. The most cost-effective solution - the key findings of a recently published independent report by Interpave has confirmed that permeable pavements can offer significant cost savings from both initial construction and whole life (over 40 years) costs. Innovatively designed SUDS solutions by Acheson & Glover can offer many benefits including reducing the risk of flooding, improving water quality, enhancing wildlife habitats, providing natural groundwater recharge and minimising pollution risk.