Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems

by Robert MackeyAdapted from a presentation by

Dr David Skidmore

Impervious surfaces increase peak water run-off

Sustainable Drainage Systems need to: -

•Hold water to stop flash floods

•Allow water to soak away gradually

•Hold back as many pollutants as possible from entering water courses

•Be suitable in safety and aesthetics for their residential or industrial development

SUDS

Water run-off is treated through:

1. Good housekeeping

2. Source controls

3. Site controls

4. Regional controls

SUDS

Good Housekeeping

Aims to keep pollutants away from run-off throughManagement of the drainage system

Monitoring EducationCare of disposal including oil and litter

Source controlsControlling run-off at or near its source

For example: -Water buttsGrass roofsWater meters

Site controlsThese can work over larger sitesNormally 2 - 5 hectaresSwalesGravel car parksInfiltrationFilter drainsDetention basins

Regional Controls

Collect water from several sub-catchments

Usually with area more than 10 hectaresLarge detention basinsPondswetlands

SUDS can offer

•Improved water quality

•A range of wildlife habitats

•Aesthetic value

•Recreational value