What Are SuDs for Schools?

In recent years, the UK has been subject to some pretty extreme weather, with storms becoming more frequent and the average rainfall increasing year on year. This can overwhelm drainage systems and result in flooding, particularly in buildings with outdated infrastructure, like schools. 

While we unfortunately can’t put a stop to torrential downpours, we can implement measures that help reduce the strain on old drainage systems. That’s where SuDs for schools can help, providing a sustainable and cost-effective way to manage excess surface water. 

But what are SuDs? And why are SuDs important in schools? The team here at 1st Call Drainage & Technical Services is here to explain.

What are SuDs?

SuDs stands for sustainable drainage systems and this innovative approach offers a more environmentally friendly way of managing surface water runoff. They use, absorb, store and transport rainwater in a sustainable way that mimics natural processes and reduces the amount of water that flows into sewers and waterways.

So why are SuDs needed in schools? Many older school buildings are equipped with outdated infrastructure, including drainage systems that just can’t cope with excess rainfall. Furthermore, most schools have tarmac or asphalt playgrounds and these impermeable materials don’t facilitate effective drainage; in the event of a flood, this could have disastrous consequences.

Key features of SuDs

If you’re looking to implement SuDs at your school, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Permeable surfaces: Incorporating permeable surfaces – like gravel, bark or decorative aggregates – allows for more gradual drainage. 

• Green roofs: Sometimes referred to as ‘living roofs’, green roofs can grow and support plants that absorb rainwater, reduce runoff and cool down the building during the summer. 

• Rain gardens: A rain garden is a shallow basin filled with plants that can survive a high level of moisture. This area of ground can receive runoff from the surrounding roofs and surfaces and effectively soak up rainwater. 

• Wetlands: Not only do wetlands increase biodiversity and act as a habitat for wildlife, but these marshy areas also intercept surface water runoff and improve water quality by removing pollutants. 

• Swales: A swale is a vegetated, shallow ditch with gently sloping sides. It can be used to store or channel the runoff from any impermeable surfaces, such as car parks or playgrounds. 

• Water butts: Water butts are a great way to harvest and reuse rainwater. These large outdoor containers hold hundreds of litres of rainwater and can be connected to guttering as a way of collecting excess water. Not only does this prevent flooding, but it can also help you to avoid rising water bills.

Benefits of SuDs for schools

• Offer a lush, green space that is an attractive alternative to traditional drainage systems
• Provide a learning environment where children can learn about nature and the water cycle
• Help to manage excess surface water and reduce the risk of flooding
• Increase the aesthetic appeal of school grounds
• Can filter contaminants from surface water runoff to improve water quality
• Access to these green spaces can improve physical and emotional wellbeing
• Contribute towards biodiversity

Such are the benefits of SuDs that, from 2024, they will become mandatory in all new developments.

When you consult with a trusted drainage professional, like the team here at 1st Call Drainage & Technical Services, we can help you decide on the right approach for your school premises. We can assess the condition of your existing drainage system and provide tailored advice to help reduce the risk of flooding and improve sustainability. 

We provide an extensive range of domestic and commercial drainage services to customers across Central London, Brentford and beyond – contact us to find out more.