Key changes in the NPPF relevant to Sustainable Drainage

  1. Broader SuDS Requirements: The new NPPF mandates SuDS for all developments, including emphasis on both Major and Minor. The limitation for SuDS to only be considered on a ‘Major Development’ has been removed and instead SuDS should be considered by all development proportionate to the scale and nature of the scheme.
  2. Holistic Approach: SuDS must address water quality, biodiversity, and amenity alongside water quantity, ensuring multifunctional benefits.
  3. “Grey Belt” Land: Newly defined lower-quality land now has ‘golden rules’ for development, with SuDS playing a critical role in enhancing these areas.
  4. Implicit Compulsion: While Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 remains unenacted, the revised NPPF effectively makes SuDS a planning requirement.

Implications for the industry

To meet these changes, projects must:

  • Incorporate SuDS Early: Planning from the concept stage is essential to align with local authority expectations.
  • Demonstrate Compliance: Strategies must show alignment with NPPF goals for sustainability and community value.
  • Adopt Innovative Solutions: Permeable pavements, rain gardens, and green roofs can address diverse project needs.

How we can help

Our expertise ensures your projects meet NPPF requirements with:

  • Custom SuDS Design: Tailored systems that tackle site-specific challenges while maximising environmental benefits.
  • Regulatory Support: Guidance to navigate compliance efficiently.
  • Impact Assessments: Demonstrating SuDS’ contributions to water quality, flood risk management, and biodiversity.
  • Maintenance Strategies: Ensuring long-term functionality and success.

Tim Leach, Waldeck’s Civil and Structural Engineering Director comments on the changes:

“The expanded SuDS requirements present an opportunity to create resilient, sustainable developments. The Waldeck team have considerable experience in SuDs and are ready and able to support you to meet these new standards. If you’d like to find out more, please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss how we can support your next project under the updated NPPF framework.”