Developers must not overlook storm water control

Too many building developers are currently overlooking the installation of storm water flood control systems, a construction industry expert has stated.


Due to factors such as global warming, which is gradually increasing the number of storms and the volume of flood water produced, installing storm water control systems such as Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) should be a main priority for planners and developers.

Other influences, such as the growing number of built-up and developed areas, are also making flood control more difficult, according to Colm Colcannon, the general manager of JFC Manufacturers, a company which produces SuDS systems.

“Because there are so many more building developments and built-up areas, the natural infiltration process has been reduced considerably,” Mr Colcannon told delegates at the seminar Protecting the environment through SuDSat the IWWE and IRWM exhibition in Dublin this week.

“Current systems just can’t cope with the runoff anymore after heavy rain,” he said. “For this reason, it is vital for developers to consider installing SuDS systems at the early planning stages.”

He added that developers who overlooked storm water control and urban drainage systems often ended up paying more money in the long run.

By Jane Kettle

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