When assessing a land parcel for development, there are a number of characteristics of the site to consider at the earliest stage. These may affect the location and type of SuDS that can be used, where surface water can be discharged, and how much land might be needed for SuDS.
Aspects to consider
Ground levels and slopes
- Is the site steep or flat?
- Where are the highest and lowest points?
- Where is water likely to flow?
Soils
- Do the soils allow water to soak in well (e.g. sandy soils) or poorly (e.g. clay-based soils)?
- Check the properties of soils on your site.
Geology
- Does the underlying rock on the site allow water to soak away well (e.g. chalk, sandstone) or poorly (e.g. clay)?
- Check the geology on your site.
Water table
- Is the water table usually high (boggy ground) or low (dry and drains well)?
- Will the water table rise close to the surface during a wet winter?
Existing ponds and watercourses
- What is the purpose of existing ponds and watercourses on site?
- Is the site located within an Internal Drainage District?
Existing private or public sewer and drainage systems
- Where are existing sewers and drainage systems located?
- Who maintains them?
- Are they in good working condition?
Flood risk
- Is the site at risk of flooding from:
- Rivers / the sea?
- Rainfall (surface water)?
- Groundwater?
- Reservoirs?
Environmental designations
- Do any areas of the site have local, national or international environmental designations?
Contaminated land
- Could the former site use have caused contamination of the soils?
Planning context
- Is the site located in an area allocated for future growth?
- What planning policies are specific to the site?