Why getting serious about drainage could save our communities from flooding

Managing director of Fabweld Steel Products, Wayne Carter, examines why our communities are facing increasing risks from surface water flooding, particularly in urban areas where concrete and tarmac prevent natural drainage.

As someone who's spent years providing essential flood protection products at FSP, I'm deeply concerned about recent developments.

DEFRA has confirmed that Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 has not been implemented in England in 2024 as promised.

While the government claims to be "strongly committed" to requiring standardised sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in developments over 100m2, we're still waiting for action. This delay comes at a time when we're experiencing more intense rainfall due to climate change, putting countless properties at risk.

As we wait for news on when the regulations will be enforced, we must focus on practical solutions to prevent flooding. There are two crucial elements of flood prevention that can't be overlooked: trash screens and headwall grilles. These components, while often underappreciated, are essential for effective drainage systems.

Trash screens act as waterway guardians, preventing debris from blocking water flow and causing flooding. Their carefully angled bars guide leaves and litter away from water channels, maintaining smooth flow. Meanwhile, headwall grilles serve as safety barriers on larger drainage pipes, protecting both people and wildlife while enabling maintenance access. Made from galvanised mild steel, they're built to last a minimum of 25 years.

A common misconception is that these components are interchangeable. In most cases this is not the case as each serves a distinct purpose, and sites may need both depending on their specific requirements. Some locations, particularly where culverts bend or extend over long distances, absolutely require proper screening to prevent blockages and maintain water flow.

While we wait for government regulations to catch up, we can't afford to be complacent. Climate change isn't waiting for paperwork, and neither should we. By incorporating these essential components early in the design process and seeking expert advice, we can create effective drainage systems that protect our communities from flooding.

We may not be able to control the weather, but we can certainly control how well prepared we are for it.