CIRIA FREE Guide Enabling development. Getting SuDS right from the start

Unlocking the full potential of a development site requires careful consideration of opportunities and constraints from the very beginning, at land acquisition or masterplanning stages. Among the most critical factors is how surface water will be managed, particularly with increasing flood risk, climate change and evolving planning requirements. By integrating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) into site planning early, developers can minimise risks, reduce long-term costs and significantly enhance the overall value of their projects. The earlier SuDS are considered, the more seamlessly they can be incorporated into site design, unlocking benefits at scale and with minimal disruption.

This guidance document and its accompanying animation have been developed as a practical resource for all stakeholders involved in land development, from residential and commercial to industrial and infrastructure projects, on both greenfield and brownfield sites. They provide insight into how early SuDS planning can accelerate the approval process, optimise developable land and boost saleability through improved environmental credentials. By helping developers align costs with land acquisition, mitigate climate risks and build greater community support, SuDS contribute directly to maximising return on investment while promoting sustainable, resilient places. Together, the guide and animation highlight how early action can transform drainage from a constraint into an opportunity, unlocking site value and creating developments fit for the future.

Download the guide here

See the accompanying animation here