Site handbook for the construction of SUDS

Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are designed to contribute to sustainable development. Rather than traditional pipe and sewer arrangements, the philosophy of SuDS is to replicate the natural drainage from a site before development, where rainfall soaks into the ground and saturates soil and vegetation before significant runoff occurs. They are designed both to manage the environmental risks resulting from urban runoff and to contribute improve the environment. Performance and operation depend upon careful planning and implementation during the construction phase, and using inappropriate plant, failure to protect the system from construction runoff and detritus, and a lack of integration of landscaping with construction, can all be the cause of poor performance SuDS. This handbook provides readily accessible guidance for easy reference and use on site. It is aimed at site engineers and SuDS practitioners.