Most planning applications now require that the proposed surface water drainage system use SuDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems) principles to minimise the impact of urbanisation. The objective of SuDS is to replicate the predevelopment or Greenfield runoff characteristics of the site. Recommended SuDS systems range from swales, infiltration trenches, permeable paving, green roofs to retention ponds, detention basins, bio-retention and storm water wetlands.

Our assessments are carried out in accordance with the GDSDS (Greater Dublin Strategic Drainage Study) policy document on New Developments, which provides a consistent approach to addressing the increase in both rate and volume of runoff as well as providing a mechanism for protecting the environment from the pollution that is washed off roads and buildings. Advice is given on the calculation of interception storage, treatment storage, attenuation storage and long term storage.