'Rain Gardens' Built in Fulham to Prevent Flooding
Urban drainage schemes designed to future proof against climate change
Local children visit rain garden
Seven sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) are being installed across Fulham as part of an attempt to future proof the area against extreme weather conditions..
The Council say that flash-flooding is on the rise due to climate change and therefore they are building these ‘rain gardens’ or specialist surfaces that store water and let it drain slowly over time, rather than flowing quickly into the city’s already under-strain sewer system.
Five have already been completed in the Fulham area at Mendora Road, Munster Road, Rickett Street, Seagrave Road and Stevenage Road. Another is under construction at Eddiscombe Road and one is planned for Rostrevor Road.
Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Cabinet Member for Environment, said, “We’re taking steps to future-proof the borough against flooding as part of our work to address the climate emergency,” said
“That’s why we’re regarded as one of London’s leading borough on SuDS.
“These schemes have multiple benefits; not only do they relieve pressure on the historic combined sewer system, they provide opportunities for planting plants and trees that create more pleasant streets for residents and improve local biodiversity.”
Rain garden on Stevenage Road, Fulham
SuDS schemes also help to reduce ‘urban heat island’ effect, where large swathes of concrete reflect heat, making cities warmer than rural areas.
The first rain garden was opened in Bridget Joyce Square in White City in 2015. The project later won an engineering award.
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