Water Source Control

One of the best techniques that can be used to develop a sustainable drainage system (SuDS) effectively is to use source control. This is defined as controlling runoff from a surface at or near its source. This, where possible, follows the natural pattern of drainage, by controlling runoff where it is generated and returning it to its natural environment as soon as practicable.

Using permeable pavements, one of the principal methods of achieving source control, manages both quality and quantity of runoff at the earliest possible stage. The basic idea is that within the voided sub-base of the pavement, water entering the pavement through the joints, is stored, recycled, infiltrated where possible, or conveyed to the outfall at a controlled rate.

Where possible this should be the first approach taken to the design process, and become the ethos around which the design is developed.