Non-statutory guidance on SuDS published by the Welsh Government
On the 30th of December 2015, the new recommended standards for SuDS were released by the Welsh Government (Llywodraeth Cymru).
The aim of this interim guidance is to enable designers, property developers, local authorities and other interested parties to demonstrate that they have taken account of both the Welsh Government’s planning advice on Development and Flood Risk and to pilot the standards for SuDS design.
The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 (Schedule 3), which has not been commenced, requires new developments in England and Wales to include Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) features that comply with national standards. It should be noted that a number of planning authorities in Wales have already adopted guidance on sustainable drainage which should be taken into account in any development proposal. Developers are encouraged to demonstrate compliance with these standards in submitting planning applications.
The guidance itself includes six drainage standards including dealing with runoff destination, hydraulic control, water quality, amenity, recreation and design. Taking account of the latest SuDS Manual from CIRIA and feedback from a public consultation in 2015, this provides the best SuDS guidance for Wales to date. The Welsh Government has published the interim national standards on an advisory basis until such time as it determines the most effective way of embedding SuDS principles in new developments in the longer term.
In line with the new standards for SuDS in England and Wales and as an approved member of CoPSO, we can now provide our brand new SuDSmart reports. Our experts are on hand to discuss your Site and planning requirements and advise the most suitable way forward with SuDS and Flood Risk.
Contact us today on 01743 298 100 or enquiries@geosmartinfo.co.uk.
