Maximising value through SuDs and Surface Water Design for our Developer Partners.
By continually focusing on sustainability and innovation, we ensure recommendations for developments and for NAV adoption result in benefits that are financial, social and environmental.
This includes consideration on Surface Water Design options, including highlighting where possible the discharge to ground or watercourse through the integration of SuDs (Sustainable Drainage Systems), which present real opportunities to maximise asset value while delivering efficient and environmentally responsible water management solutions.
- Prioritise Discharge to Watercourses:
One of the fundamental ways to maximise asset value is by ensuring as much surface water as possible drains to a watercourse or infiltrates into the ground. Ideally, 100% of surface water flows to a watercourse, as this approach reduces reliance on engineered structures. However, where full discharge isn’t feasible, ESP encourages discharging the maximum possible proportion to watercourses, as any proportion that does not return to the incumbent water company will increase the asset value.
- Communal Soakaways and Oversized Pipes:
In situations where soakaways to ground are viable, communal soakaways are recommended, rather than individual ones, as these communal systems enhance asset value and ease maintenance responsibilities. Additionally, the use of oversized pipes to provide emergency flood storage within the network is encouraged, for efficiency. It can shrink the footprint of basins or ponds needed for a development, saving valuable developable land and improving overall design flexibility.
- Multi-Functional SuDS:
Modern SuDS are not only functional but can contribute additional benefits for communities, such as combining attenuation tanks or basins with recreational spaces like play areas. This approach optimises land use and delivers aesthetically pleasing, amenity-rich developments that appeal to homeowners and planners alike!
- Innovative Adoption Solutions:
Unlike many incumbent water companies, ESP can adopt SuDS that discharge to private assets, expanding options for developers. For example, ESP will adopt an upstream Swale and pipe network that discharges into a private pond. ESP can also assist in the legals required if needed free of charge.
Navigating future changes and complexities
ESP Water team experts provide valuable guidance on issues ranging from adoption processes, for example to navigating commercial challenges associated with outfalls to canals or other waterways.
This support streamlines complex processes that can otherwise delay projects.
And, with DEFRA’s Schedule 3: Flood & Water Management Act 2010 mandating SuDS on new developments in England, developers face an evolving regulatory landscape. Choosing SuDS adoption through ESP is a proactive, no-regrets option that ensures readiness for regulatory change.
Over 1.1 Million Connections. Your Trusted Partner, Guiding Your Future Utility Solutions.
With 25+ years of experience and 1.1 million multi-utility connections adopted, ESP Utilities is the go-to partner for future-ready infrastructure. Our ESP Water division delivers innovative, sustainable water networks – backed by 200+ years of combined industry expertise.
Contact ESP Water today to explore benefits to NAV adoption & how we can add value to Your Project.
Email: commercial@espug.com