Sustainable urban drainage

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are flood management projects which to mimic natural processes.

Examples of sustainable drainage are:

• Ponds
• Green roofs
• Soakaways
• Swales

Sustainable drainage puts as much water as possible back into the ground to:

• Help maintain healthy aquifers
• Decrease the risk of flooding and drought
• Improve water quality

Sustainable drainage is a material planning consideration for all major applications.

As the Lead Local Flood Authority, Southwark Council is consulted on all major planning applications since 15 April 2015.

Planning applications for major developments must include a completed Sustainable Drainage Proforma.   

Page last updated: 10 April 2024