Groundwater aquifers hold at least 20 times more water than all surface reservoirs and are a vital water resource, providing a high percentage of public water supplies and helping maintain rivers, lakes and wetlands. However, groundwater is very vulnerable to pollution – particularly in urban areas and beneath farmland – so a sustainable drainage strategy is essential to preserve a consistency of quality supply.

Conventional drainage systems which rely solely on underground pipes to remove surface water run-off can contribute to the problem by allowing untreated water to flow directly into rivers or the groundwater. There can also be a significantly increased risk of flooding if poorly designed surface routes or blocked drains are unable to cope with heavy downpours.

In line with local authority guidelines for sustainable development – such as Agenda 21 – Buro Happold considers long term environmental, economic and social factors when designing drainage infrastructure. Our integrated urban drainage strategies aim to balance the needs of flood control and water quality with amenity aspects such as water resources, landscaping potential and the creation of wildlife habitats. 

Where possible we utilise sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) that enable rainwater to naturally drain into the subsoil and so reduce the risk of ‘nonpoint source’ pollution caused by runoff flowing over the land and picking up pollutants in its path. SUDS use a variety of techniques to manage runoff flow, including porous pavements, swales, balancing ponds and passive treatment systems.