Cornwall County Council
April 2010
- UK
- Built environment
- Flooding
A Surface Water Management Plan has been drawn up for a regeneration area in Cornwall.
Main messages
Applying technical expertise and local knowledge has led to a cost-effective solution to a drainage challenge, helping to contribute to an important regeneration project.
In detail
Motivation
The 2007 floods highlighted the need for better planning and management of surface water flood risks. The Environment Agency can supply data, advice and guidance to help local authorities.
The Water Framework Directive asks for good quality ground water and surface water by 2015.
A former industrial area around Camborne and Redruth in Cornwall is in need of regeneration and there are plans for the development of 11,100 new dwellings and improved public services and infrastructure over the next 20 years. The current drainage systems in the area are operating at capacity, and there is a need to remove surface water to reduce the risk of flooding and pollution. Area includes disused mines.
Main players & partners
- Cornwall Council
- Entec Consulting Engineers
- CPR Regeneration
- Halcrow Consulting Engineers
- South West RDA
- South West Water
- Environment Agency
Process
A Surface Water Management Plan was developed in partnership – the Environment Agency, Cornwall Council and other partners. Project Team included Entec Consulting Engineers, working under the guidance and support of the Environment Agency. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) was an integral part of the Plan.
Outcomes
Reduced risk of flooding and pollution. Enhanced opportunities for wildlife through the creation of cleaner watercourses.
SWMP has been adopted by Cornwall Council as policy. First section of the SUDS is being built
Analysis
Strengths
By installing the new measures, water can be diverted from the existing sewage system so that a new additional system does not have to be constructed.