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landscaping & external works
‘There is a common
misconception that SuDS can only be used in certain
applications’
run-off treated within the system can be harvested for irrigation, biodiversity or amenity use within a development – or simply recycled. Approaching SuDS holistically, the oppor- tunities for architects to bring wider range of benefits to a development are manifold. The Government’s recent change in approach to implement-
ing SuDS through the planning system is a very clear call for architects, designers and engineers to lead the way and develop multi-functional design approaches. A holistic approach should see the issue of drainage become an integral part of the design process – and not an end in itself. Indeed, by integrating SuDS with urban design, the architects, designers and engineers will be able to better deliver amenity and community value as well as improving the character of the landscape and townscape. However, to achieve this, surface water management needs
to be linked to development planning from the very start of a project. This will allow space to be used more effectively and in a multi-functional way, enabling water storage and conveyance zones to form part of the development’s character. Integrating water management with design of developments
will also maximise the drainage system’s capacity for delivering multiple planning and environmental benefits. Wherever pos- sible, the 2013 Code of Practice BS 8582 suggests incorporating permeable surfaces and surface-based conveyance. This could be porous concrete and asphalt – or when aesthetics is high on the agenda, concrete block permeable paving. Whereas traditional drainage systems are constrained
by capacity, SuDS solutions have no such constraints. SuDS solutions incorporating permeable paving allow water to soak naturally where it falls into the pavement below. Such systems can be designed to address a number of key issues such as water quantity, water quality, trafficking and biodiversity. By consid- ering these key issues in the design you can develop drainage systems that reduce the impact of high levels of rainfall on communities and wildlife.
Design responses
The Code of Practice advises that permeable surfaces and surface-based conveyance and storage systems should be used in concept designs wherever practical. It also highlights the importance of linking multi-functional SuDS design to other development infrastructure, such as car parking and public
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open space. A recent paper presented at the Building Centre looked at clever SuDS design responses to flood risks and considered innovative designs being proposed by leading architects which seek to ‘live with’ water, rather than just defending against it. Supporting this ethos, the permeable pavement can be
designed to treat the water as it passes through the system, removing water-borne pollution, meaning it can be used in landscape design, harvesting and ecology. The presentation at the Building Centre outlined the stark reality of flooding for homeowners to illustrate the importance of designing develop- ments that tackle it. As water filtrates through a permeable pavement system, many of the pollutants are treated or removed before the water is stored or gradually released into the drainage network or natural infiltration. Concrete block paving can be used in almost all circumstances, for full infiltration to the ground, partial infiltration with excess water directed to the next SuDS stage, or full containment and controlled release to the next SuDS stage. Concrete block permeable paving is ideally placed to meet
the Code of Practice requirements and is a good choice for architects following holistic, design-led approaches. There is now an extensive range of permeable paving options available giving architects design freedom on aesthetics of a streetscape. In addition, the performance of products is comparable with
or better than standard pre-cast concrete paving alternatives. As well as providing a level, firm and slip-resistant surface, permeable paving also removes the needs for cross-falls, channels and gulleys, and can be designed to support heavy trafficking and loads. Very little maintenance of systems is required – and as there’s no need to install below-ground drainage, ongoing cost and maintenance is kept to a minimum if SuDS is designed in from the start of the project. The industry needs to grab the opportunities that SuDS
presents with both hands to realise the benefits that can be brought to projects. Earlier engagement with landscape architects and SuDS manufacturers is key to ensuring the right solution is identified for the project – whether that’s permeable hard landscaping systems of soft SuDS, such as ponds, filter drains, or artificial concrete streams. In so doing, architects, designers and engineers will be able to achieve future-proof, attractive and sustainable solutions.
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