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Alex Stephenson has 40 years experience in stormwater drainage design and related issues and has been chair of the British Water Sustainable Water Management (SuWM) Focus Group for 10 years. He has been Operations Director of the UK Stormwater Division of Hydro International for 7 years.


“Innovative technologies – many developed and well-proven by UK companies – are available to reduce the amount of space needed for surface water features. Proprietary solutions can also help to deliver predictable and repeatable maintenance schedules that local authorities can effectively cost. Technologies such as vortex flow controls, underground storage/infiltration systems


and treatment devices are available to use alongside, or instead of natural features. “A pragmatic approach is essential if we are to realise the full potential of sustainable drainage systems. It was 2007 when devastating surface water flooding first prompted the Pitt Review which led to the Flood and Water Management Act. Six years later, after persistent delays and repeated calls for action by politicians on


the Efra committee, it seems unbelievable that we are still waiting. Technologies are already available that can deliver a satisfactory compromise. “It’s vital that Defra gets the all- important design guidance that will accompany the legislation absolutely right. It’s essential that this, and future, design guidance for SuDS takes full account of the toolbox of well-proven technologies available to support natural design features.” The proposed new legislation is applicable in England and Wales. Different regulations are already in place in Scotland where SuDS have been compulsory since 2003. The successes and lessons learned were highlighted in the recent SuDS in Scotland – Experience and Opportunity Survey. For more information visit the SuDS knowledge sharing website www.engineeringnaturesway.co.uk


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    


    





   





     





    


 


  


 


   PUBLIC SECTOR SUSTAINABILITY • VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2  15


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