Working with schools to reduce flooding
We've teamed up with the Department for Education and schools across the south to reduce storm overflows and flooding through the installation of sustainable drainage systems.
What causes flooding?
Rainwater run-off from impermeable surfaces is a big contributor. When too much of this water gets into the network, it can quickly become overwhelmed resulting in the use of storm overflows and in some cases, flooding.
Schools have large roofs and impermeable ground like playgrounds and pathways, so it’s important the water that runs off them, known as surface water, is managed to prevent these issues.
Environmentally friendly solutions
We’ve partnered with the Department for Education on a match funded project to install sustainable drainage systems at schools across the south. We’ve installed raingarden planters at 93 schools, as well as two larger scale systems involving rain gardens, tree pits and swales.
The benefits of sustainable drainage systems
These sustainable drainage systems have dramatically reduced rainwater runoff, managing over 117 million litres of rainwater so far. That’s enough to fill over 46 Olympic sized swimming pools.
The sustainable drainage systems have been a hit with students, teachers and even passers-by stopping to admire the flowers. These clever and eco-friendly solutions are not only visually appealing, but they protect the environment, boost local biodiversity and provide learning opportunities for students on gardening and sustainability.
Matt Gage, Programme Director, Department for Education's Schools Commercial Team said:
“The partnership between the Department for Education and Southern Water to install sustainable drainage systems in schools is a shining example of how government and industry can work together to create a more sustainable future.”
Frazer Westmorland, Headteacher of Mundella Primary School said:
“As part of our ongoing commitment to reducing waste and supporting environmental strategies, we’re thrilled to have support from Southern Water, enabling us to add these new sustainable drainage systems to our school.”
Martin Jones, Headteacher of Dane Court Grammar School said:
“We’re delighted with the new rain gardens and, already, our students are benefiting from the changes to the school site. This is a wonderful opportunity for all year groups to cultivate a greater understanding of environmental care and apply this knowledge to shape a more sustainable future.”
Future work
We're continuing to roll out green solutions across the south to manage surface water and reduce storm overflows and flooding. We're working with schools, businesses, community groups and local authorities to install sustainable drainage systems and influence future plans to consider nature-based solutions.
Find out more about how our Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force are reducing storm overflows across our region.