A Pain in the Drain?

As we know rather too well, flooding can be very expensive and distressing.  Whatever the weather this summer, if you are planning to have any building work done, do think about using drainage techniques called 'SUDS' or Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems.  Hard, impermeable surfaces such as tiled roofs and brick driveways will usually shed rainwater very quickly and do not provide any storage capacity for runoff, adding to the risk of flooding. 

There is quite a lot of established research in this area. These systems do not have to be complicated. They also help to trap and break down pollutants like detergent from car washing, oil or sewage, helping protect wildlife, especially during sudden summer thunderstorms which can wash sewage into rivers.  They can also look nice!  Features such as gravelled drives or other porous surfaces, overflows running to landscape features such as temporary ponds or soakaways can all detain rainwater, provide wildlife havens and also reduce the impact of sudden runoff downstream, whilst also helping to hold water back if drought conditions do take hold.

 

Also, a quick word about 'misconnections'.  You can also make sure that any toilets, sinks, showers, baths or dishwashers or washing machines are connected to the right outlet, as well as rainwater pipes.  If either is plumbed in the “wrong way round” they can cause foul water to end up in surface water drains or watercourses.  This can be a very common problem and can result in cooking fat, noodles or many less savoury materials getting into our streams and rivers and eventually the sea.  It is also illegal to let this happen.

 

If you want to find out more to help you do your bit, please check out the 'SUDS' link below, or contact

Martin Everett 01386 881058

Useful Link

 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems