The Flood Hub

Our gardens can help manage the risk of flooding by absorbing rainwater and easing pressure on drains. Simple changes such as installing rain gardens, permeable paving, and water butts are great examples of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) that help manage the risk of surface water flooding. These features not only slow the flow of rainwater but also create greener, more climate-resilient outdoor spaces. Using SuDS in gardens can support biodiversity, improve drainage, and manage the risk of localised flooding during heavy rainfall.

This blog been written by a member of the Newground Flood Team.

 

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Have you ever considered how your outdoor space can play a role in managing flood risk? With wetter weather, rising sea levels, and increased rainfall becoming more common due to climate change, our gardens are more important than ever in managing surface water flooding and improving drainage. Over 4.6 million properties in England are at risk of surface water flooding, and by adapting our outdoor spaces to cope with these changing conditions, we can help make our homes and communities more resilient to the impacts of a shifting climate.

Impermeable surfaces like concrete patios, paved driveways and artificial grass prevent rainwater from soaking into the ground, causing excess water to run off into drains. This increases the risk of localised flooding, especially during heavy rainfall when drainage systems struggle to cope. However, by making a few simple changes, we can help our gardens absorb more water, reduce flood risk, and create healthier, greener spaces.

 

How Can Gardens Help Manage Flood Risk?

Small adjustments in your garden can make a big difference in managing flooding. By incorporating these Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) features into your garden mimics natural drainage processes, manages the risk of flooding and enhances water quality. Some of the most effective strategies include:

• Rain Gardens: These shallow, planted areas collect rainwater from roofs, patios, or driveways and allow it to soak into the soil naturally. They not only reduce surface water flooding but also support biodiversity.
• Sustainable Drainage Planters: These raised planters capture runoff and slowly release it into the ground, making them ideal for small gardens or paved areas.
• Water Butts: Collecting rainwater from roofs helps reduce excess water entering drainage systems while providing free water for your garden during drier periods.
• Permeable Paving: Instead of solid concrete or tarmac, using gravel, permeable blocks, or reinforced grass allows rainwater to soak through rather than running off.
• Small Trees & Shrubs: Their roots absorb rainwater, stabilise the soil, and reduce surface runoff, while also creating habitat for wildlife.
• Green Roofs & Living Walls: Even a shed roof can be transformed into a planted surface that absorbs rain, improves air quality, and boosts biodiversity.
• Swales: Shallow, grassed channels that slow down and filter rainwater.

Soakaways: Underground gravel-filled pits that collect rainwater and allow it to slowly seep into the ground.

Incorporating SuDS into your garden not only helps manage surface water flooding but also improves water quality and enhances the overall environment. Many councils and developers are now prioritising SuDS in urban planning to make cities and neighbourhoods more flood resilient.

 

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Unpave the Way – Reducing Paved Surfaces in Gardens

One key initiative tackling flood risk is Unpave the Way, a project that encourages homeowners to replace impermeable surfaces in front gardens and driveways with permeable alternatives. Paved driveways have become increasingly common, often at the expense of natural drainage. Removing or reducing impermeable surfaces can significantly improve rainwater absorption and manage the risk of flooding on roads and in neighbourhoods.

By choosing gravel, grass reinforcement grids, or permeable paving instead of traditional concrete or asphalt, you can:

• Reduce rainwater runoff and prevent local drainage systems from being overwhelmed.
• Improve soil health by allowing water to naturally filter into the ground.
• Enhance biodiversity by creating more space for plants, insects, and wildlife.
• Keep your home cooler in summer, as paved surfaces can increase heat retention.

If you’re considering making a change, you can read more about ‘Unpave the Way’ on our website: https://thefloodhub.co.uk/unpave-the-way/.

 

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More Than Just Flood Protection

Creating a flood-resilient garden offers numerous benefits beyond reducing flood risk. It:

• Improves soil health: Preventing soil erosion and retaining nutrients for healthier plant growth.
• Boosts biodiversity: Attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies while creating habitats for birds and other wildlife.
• Reduces pollution: Natural drainage helps filter out pollutants, improving water quality in local streams and rivers.
• Enhances well-being: Spending time in green, natural spaces has been proven to reduce stress and improve mental health.

 

Click here to download our resource on the multiple benefits of Sustainable Drainage Systems.

 

For more information on flood resilience and to read more about Sustainable Drainage Systems, visit: https://thefloodhub.co.uk/suds/.