What is SUDS?

SUDS is the Sustainable Urban Drainage System.

Most natural ground surfaces, such as grass and soil, are permeable. Built up areas are very different, featuring predominantly tarmac, asphalt and other kinds of paving.

These are not permeable, and surface water is unable to infiltrate the ground. The resulting surface runoff can cause a number of issues, including water pollution and flooding.

If the surface to be covered is more than five square metres planning permission will be needed for laying traditional, impermeable driveways that do not provide for the water to run to a permeable area”
— UKGOV Planning Portal

We install High-quality, Durable Resin Bound Driveways in line with regulations.

Why is SUDS important?

To tackle this, new driveways and other surfaces have to comply with SUDS regulations. The Environment Agency strongly encourages the application of resin bound driveways and surfaces to help. This is why resin bound is ideal for parks, large drives, paths and playgrounds.

SUDS regulations are one of the reasons resin bound systems have become increasingly popular; they are designed to be permeable and can be used in accordance with SUDS building regulations. Even if you do not live in an urban or built up area, a resin bound driveway is highly encouraged to prevent flooding.

Is a Resin Bound system SUDS compliant?

Yes, your Resin Bound surface will be SUDS compliant providing it is laid onto a porous base. This can be a special concrete or open textured Bitmac on top of a type 3 stone. Laying a resin bound system onto an impermeable base will not be SUDS compliant.

Resin bound aggregates include small gaps between each aggregate where water is able to infiltrate the ground beneath. A resin bound surface can handle 850 litres of water per square metre per minute.

The system can also be laid directly on top of old Bitmac or concrete, but it will require a suitable soakaway or drainage flow. The existing surface must also be sound and free of cracks. 

Is a Resin Bonded system SUDS compliant?

No, resin bonded systems are not SUDS compliant. This is because resin is applied directly onto a surface, usually Bitmac or concrete. This forms a complete layer of hardened resin, which water cannot pass through.

What does the UK Government say?

You will not need planning permission if a new or replacement driveway of any size uses permeable surfacing which allows water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving or porous asphalt, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally.”