Lamb Drove SuDS

Location

Cambourne, west of Cambridge - low lying land with 35 affordable homes

Aims of the Scheme

Control the runoff starting as close to the source as possible to reduce flood risk

Management train

Uses simple natural and visible drainage components in series to improve water quality by mimicking the natural flow of water across the site

Successes

Positive reactions from both residents and stakeholders, improved quality of water, visually enhanced areas and saving money for both the council and homeowners

Limitations

Permeable paving has not been adopted and maintained by the councils, initial safety concerns over standing water, residents have required education

Green roofs

Absorb water when it lands - reduce and treat surface runoff

Detention basin

Act as a holding pond for water - slow the rate of runoff

Filter strip

A strip of land to filter the water - reduce harmful chemicals

Swale

Shallow open channel for water - slow the rate of runoff

Water butt

Collect roof water for later use - slow the rate of runoff

Permeable paving

Use of porous block paving to allow infiltration - slow the rate of runoff and filter water

Underdrained swale

A shallower swale that has a filter beneath - slow the rate of runoff and filter water

Retention pond

Final storage of water before it is released - slow the rate of runoff