This will lead to more extreme weather events, such as intense storms and heatwaves, and to higher sea levels, which will affect the River Thames.
These changes in our climate and weather patterns pose many risks to the natural and built environments, from biodiversity and habitat loss, as well as extreme heat and flooding.
To adapt to these climate risks, we need to consider a wide range of interventions, including ways to minimise flood risk and overheating. Our primary method of tackling this is through funding and installing sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) across the borough. These are typically landscaped areas designed to collect water and mimic natural drainage processes to reduce pressure on the sewer system. They can have the added benefits of increasing green space and supporting access to nature, play and biodiversity.
Get more information about what SuDS are on our consultation website.
Soak up Lambeth programme
In the past 5 years, we have installed SuDS across the borough, with funding from the council, Thames Water, the Greater London Authority and the Department for Education, among others.
You can see what we’ve been up to, and keep an eye out for future projects, on our Soak Up Lambeth consultation webpage.
We have selected locations for SuDS based on hydrological modelling which predicts where they’ll be most effective at reducing flood risk. Designs have been informed by the community through surveys, meetings and drop-in sessions.
You can view a map of sustainable drainage systems across the whole of London and add any that are missing.
What next?
The flood risk management team is continuing to seek out opportunities to deliver SuDS through grants and collaboration with other teams and organisations.
If you have any questions or want to see SuDS in your area, let us know at sustainability@lambeth.gov.uk.