EWSC Project Reports

Exploring the value of high quality SuDS: With growing pressures from climate change and ageing infrastructure, we need new approaches to managing rainwater and surface water in housing developments.

This work explored perspectives around Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) through a poll with over 2000 UK adults, immersive field work in new build locations with SuDS, and interviews with developers. It also undertook economic analysis to value the wider benefits of these systems, beyond their drainage and flood control benefits.

The research demonstrates that the public value green-blue spaces and clean air and water very highly and would be willing to pay an average of £4,001 per home premium for homes with high quality SuDS. This translates to a £3.1 billion property value premium for he planned 1.3 million homes in this parliament.

Developers recognise the amenity and biodiversity benefits of SuDS but cite inconsistent regulation and unclear maintenance responsibilities as key barriers to their delivery.

The report calls for decisive action from government to make high-quality SuDS mandatory in all new developments and clarify adoption and maintenance responsibilities.