The Welsh government has launched a consultation on draft regulations for the implementation of sustainable drainage systems (Suds) on new developments.
Wales intends to implement the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 (Schedule 3) which requires new developments to include Suds features that comply with national standards.
Lesley Griffiths, AM, cabinet secretary for energy, planning and rural affairs, said: “Surface water flooding is a serious problem and a major cause of flooding to homes across Wales. The impacts on citizens and communities can be devastating and the cost to the Welsh economy significant. Our commitment to better managing water in our environment is a vital foundation for achieving prosperity for all and to delivering our long-term wellbeing goals for Wales.”
Around 163,000 properties in Wales are at risk of surface water flooding and the risks are increasing due to climate change and urbanisation.
Pollution and damage to the environment from surface water flooding is estimated to cost the Welsh economy around £60 million to £130 million per year. Griffiths said Suds can reduce flood damage by up to 30 per cent.
She added: “Our intention is to ensure the management of surface water from new developments follows good practice using the sustainable drainage approach.
“This will ensure resilient drainage systems which provide multiple benefits for water quality, flood risk reduction, amenity, wellbeing and biodiversity are installed for all new developments in both urban and rural areas.”
The use of Suds on new developments in currently voluntary. In January 2016 the Welsh government published recommended national standards for Suds in Wales on a non-statutory basis. These provide principles and guidance for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of Suds on new developments.
But Griffiths said the uptake of good quality Suds compliant with the standards “remains low”.
Throughout the summer the Welsh government consulted on the implementation of sustainable drainage systems on new developments which sought views on improving the uptake of Suds on new developments.
Schedule 3 provides a means for local authorities to approve and adopt Suds, establishing them as the ‘Suds approving body’ (the SAB) and introduces mandatory Suds standards.
To implement the requirements of Schedule 3, the Welsh government will now consult on the draft statutory instruments and statutory Suds standards which provide the framework for its introduction.
This further consultation is open until 15 February 2018. The Welsh government expects to introduce the legislation into the Assembly in May, with a view to it coming into force within six months.