Case studies

Bedwellty Fields, Aberbargoed

In 2019, we became the Sustainable Drainage Approving Body (SAB).

Most new developments and re-developments over 100m² must use Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). We review and approve the design of SuDS and carry out on-site inspections to ensure that they are built in accordance with the approved design. We also adopt SuDS that serve more than 1 property or public highways and become responsible for the maintenance of them.

Bedwellty Fields is a 2-phase development carried out by Llanmoor Homes.

The first phase obtained planning permission shortly before the implementation of Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act in 2019 and used a traditional pipe based below ground drainage system and a large storage tank for holding water during storm events.

The second phase of the site is being developed following the introduction of mandatory Sustainable Drainage approvals and is seeing a variety of Nature Based Solutions being installed, such as Rain Gardens, Drainage Blankets and Swales.

This will provide a greener development, with drainage systems that will not only deal with flooding but will also treat the runoff prior to it being discharged to watercourses and provide valuable biodiversity benefits. The drainage system is mostly on the surface rather than below ground meaning that issues are more visible, and maintenance is easier, cheaper and less disruptive.

See more about how SuDS are changing the face of development in our video case study.