SRA Annual Report 2021-22: Introduction to Urban Water Management and SuDS
The main aims of Somerset Rivers Authority’s Urban Water Management workstream are to reduce local flood risks, and to make places better to live and work.
Activities in 2021-22 have included drainage surveys in Shepton Mallet, water management system modelling and the installation of a new field drain in Rode, research in and around Minehead, and more than 40 inspections of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) on new Somerset developments.
When it rains, SuDS help to control the run-off of water from hard surfaces like roads, roofs and pavements. SuDS use techniques inspired by nature – such as permeable paving and plants and ponds – to absorb water and hold it back. SuDS can make places greener and more attractive, healthier for people and better for wildlife, with less pollution.