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By prioritising and accounting for efficient surface water drainage, Castle \water helps in contributing to the overall safety and functionality of a business premises, helping clients navigate challenges associated with water management effect
Surface water drainage is when rainwater falls and is drained away, whether that’s directly through the drains and into the sewerage system, through soakaways, or directly into the ground. When there is insufficient drainage, or there is simply too much water accumulating in a short space of time, surface water has nowhere to go, which causes flooding.
It involves collecting, conveying, and removing rainwater or other surface runoff from streets, landscapes, and buildings to prevent water accumulation. Proper surface water drainage systems are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of infrastructure, preventing soil erosion, and safeguarding against potential water-related damages.
These systems typically include gutters, stormwater drains, and retention basins that efficiently direct water away from critical areas.
In 2020, Defra published a report on arrangements for determining responsibility for surface water and drainage assets. The report concluded, rather gloomily, that: “Much of our drainage infrastructure is ageing, and in need of significant maintenance or replacement. New development risks reducing the capacity of the land to provide natural drainage, and has the potential to increase surface water run off.” Responsibility for improvements to surface water drainage is not clear cut, and the report’s author concludes that: “the National Planning Policy Framework [needs to] be reviewed to ensure that national advice on the vital importance of achieving sustainable drainage for all new development is prominent, clear, and unequivocal.”
As the authorities search for a solution for upgrading the country’s drainage system, there are steps you can take in the immediate future to reduce the likelihood of high rainfall overwhelming your drainage system and flooding your business premises.
This may seem obvious, but people are prone to flushing inappropriate things into the drainage system such as wet wipes, nappies, and sanitary products. These then accumulate, trapping with oils and fats that are put down kitchen sinks, and eventually cause the delightful phenomenon known as ‘fatbergs’. To try to prevent blocked drains, put notices in the bathrooms reminding employees that wet wipes need to go in the bins and sanitary products need to go in the special bins provided.
If you have grounds surrounding your premises, consider installing soakaways. A soakaway is an underground pit filled with gravel. Instead of directing rainwater directly into the sewerage system – where you will be charged for its disposal – you can funnel it into the soakaway. This will redirect the excess water caused by heavy rainfall into the earth around your building with the additional benefit of watering your grounds or gardens.
As the UK’s leading independent business water supplier, we give free, practical advice to help your business become more sustainable and reduce costs. Our Water Efficiency Guidance is packed with easy and practical tips to help your business save water and money.
Need to switch supplier? Castle Water can offer a range of services, which include business water services & wastewater management.