Purpose

This manual is to be used as a tool for
developing, designing and constructing Sustainable Drainage Systems
(SuDS) in Westminster’s public realm.  

Decision

Summary of decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved
the adoption of the Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) Design Manual which is to be used by the
Council and our contractors when developing, designing and
constructing SuDS across
Westminster’s public realm.  

Reasons for decision
 
Sustainable drainage
systems (SuDS) are drainage
solutions that provide an alternative to the direct channelling of
surface water through networks of pipes and sewers to nearby
watercourses. They reduce the risk of flooding and pollution from
urban water runoff. They can improve water quality, increase
biodiversity, and enhance the amenity of an area. The
SuDS Design Manual is an important step
to rolling out SuDS at pace across the
city. Standardised design guidance ensures any SuDS going in the ground are high quality and are
built to last. Shared design commonalities across SuDS increases cost efficiencies in construction
and maintenance of schemes.