Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)
Existing national planning policy was strengthened in 2014 to make it clear the government expects SuDS to be provided in new developments. The latest national planning policy framework outlines these expectations.
Where planning applications are for major development, we must ensure that SuDS are put in place, unless demonstrated to be inappropriate.
Minor developments
These are defined as developments beneath the thresholds set out for major developments below.
We will not require particular drainage submissions to make an application valid for a minor development, but we encourage evidence that SuDS have been considered.
Please ensure that part 12 (assessment of flood risk) of the standard application for planning permission is completed accurately.
Major developments
A major development is defined as:
- residential development: 10 dwellings or more or residential development with a site area of 0.5 hectares or more where the number of dwellings is not yet known
- non-residential development: provision of a building or buildings where the total floor space to be created:
- is 1,000 square metres or more
- where the floor area is not yet known
- a site area of 1 hectare or more
You are advised to fill in the surface water drainage pro-forma (see downloads section below) with the level of detailed depending on the type of application submitted.
Major applications will not be made valid unless accompanied by the requirements in the following pages,
Pre-application advice
We encourage all applicants to use the Environment Agency pre-application service so that that drainage matters can be discussed and potentially agreed upon at this stage.