Appropriately designed, constructed and maintained SuDS support sustainable development through combining water management with green space with benefits for amenity, recreation and wildlife. SuDS are more sustainable than conventional surface water drainage methods as they can mitigate many of the adverse effects that stormwater run-off has on the environment. This can be achieved by:

• Reducing run-off rates, thereby lessening the risk of flooding downstream
• Minimising additional run-off emanating from urban development, which could exacerbate the risk of flooding and impair water quality
• Encouraging natural groundwater recharge (as appropriate) and so reduce the impact on aquifers and rivers.
• Reducing pollution risks associated with development
• Contributing to and enhancing the amenity and landscape of an area and to promoting community involvement and enjoyment
• Providing habitats for wildlife and opportunities for biodiversity enrichment.

Do I need to show you my drainage design?

Yes. As the Lead Local Flood Authority in Essex, we are the statutory body to provide advice on major planning applications including SuDS in Essex. These include developments for: 

1. The winning and working of minerals or the use of land for mineral-working deposits
2. Waste development
3. The provision of dwelling houses where;
   i. the number of dwellings to be provided is 10 or more
   ii. the development is to be carried out on a site having an area of 0.5 hectares or more and it is not known whether the development falls within sub-paragraph 3i)
4. The provision of a building or buildings where the floor space is to be created by the development is 1,000 square metres or more.
5. Development carried out on a site having an area of 1 hectare or more

To apply for planning permission, you should submit any documents including any drainage information to the relevant Local Planning Authority.

For more information please visit The Sustainable Drainage Systems Design Guide for Essex