The innovations included WSUD features to provide flood mitigation as a sustainable alternative to on-site ‘grey infrastructure’ like concrete pits, tanks and pipes. Other benefits included managing water quality, providing amenity and supporting biodiversity.

However, advances in WSUD have yet to be reflected in the technical guidance, which means councils are restricted in what they can and will approve.

To accelerate the implementation of WSUD in small scale development, current best practices could be standardised and documented.

Read the original case study and 2024 update, links below.