National standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems to be updated

The government has announced that it is updating the national standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) for the first time in a decade in a bid to tackle water pollution and protect communities from flooding.

The new standards will give developers clearer guidance on how to create rainwater management systems that mimic the natural environment and deliver better outcomes.

Ideas include spaces designed to collect and filter rainwater, which will relieve pressure on the sewage system and prevent pollution overflowing into our waterways. Green roofs and soakaways are also encouraged.

The new standards include requirements to reduce flood risk by actively managing surface water on site and improving water quality before it enters rives and streams. Developers will be encouraged to provide community benefits by creating more attractive and resilient places to live and work and prioritise solutions that enhance biodiversity and green space.

Water Minister Emma Hardy said: "The Government will introduce new standards to tackle water pollution, protect communities from flooding and make our new towns beautiful. 

"Nature recovery and growth can go hand in hand, and these new standards will enable the sustainable building of 1.5 million homes as part of the Plan for Change."