"We were impressed by the speedy, well-informed service and personal contact that we received. The report was thorough and comprehensive. We will certainly use GeoSmart's services in the future"
Gregory Gray
Gregory Gray Associates
New guidance is released today for lawyers on drainage requirements for new build developments. Local Authorities are implementing stricter planning controls in favour of more sustainable drainage due, in part, to the challenges presented by climate change.
The guidance has been prepared by the highly respected barrister and author of “Water and Drainage Law”, John Bates, of Old Square Chambers. Mr. Bates’ guidance note examines how, with the prioritisation now given to Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), lawyers have to do more to satisfy their duty of care to clients. Lawyers need to advise clients how SuDS might impact their development sites and give rise to long-term management responsibilities.
Mr. Bates advises lawyers that there is a presumption in favour of SuDS for development and that SuDS are the preferred approach to managing surface water runoff, adding:
“Lawyers should commission a pre-application SuDS report to ascertain whether SuDS are appropriate or not, because this has important legal repercussions for your client.”
Other key points from the Guidance include: