8 reasons why you need to install permeable paving

One answer is deceptively simple – specify and install permeable paving on your next development. Here are 8 reasons why it’s a must have on a modern development.

1. Removes flooded water

Too many of our urban surfaces are sealed systems so there is no where for the water to go other than into the storm water drains.  When there is a major storm, which seems to happen regularly due to climate change, these drains often can’t cope, leading to some of the distressing images that we see on our TVs.  As its name suggests permeable paving absorbs surface water to help reduce the effects of localised flooding.

This water slowly releases into the natural water courses or flood drains to avoid them become overloaded.

2. SuDS will become mandatory

Permeable paving is an important part of a sustainable urban drainage system (SuDS).  Such systems are already mandatory in Wales under the “Flood and Water Management Act 2010” and are approved by local authority “SuDS Approving Bodies”.  England did not implement these measures under schedule 3 at the time, but the government is under pressure to act and is now moving towards implementation, probably by the end of 2023.

3. Improves water quality

By including a geotextile fabric, permeable paving systems such as Formpave can treat and clean surface water to remove hydrocarbons, microplastics and other pollutants to clean any water before it finally enters a water course or drain.

4. Better biodiversity

As part of an overall SuDS development, you would expect more green areas in our urban environment. In addition, because permeable paving absorbs water this is more available for tree and shrub roots, making them healthier and less likely for their roots to break though the road or paving surface in search of surface water.

5. Minimises ice

Because water is absorbed through the paving there is no or little water on the surface that can freeze during cold weather making surfaces safer to walk on.

6. Reduces heat islands

Heat islands are common in towns and cities because they are covered in concrete or asphalt.  These surfaces absorb heat, which increases the temperature.  Permeable paving allows the soil underneath to breath which reduces this affect.

7. Easy to design and install

While contractors may shy away from change, installing systems like our own Formpave is actually very simple.  We can help you design such systems and our free CPD “Formpave Aquaflow SuDS System” will teach you what you need to know.

8. SuDS is the future

With legislation on the way and more pressure from local communities, measures to manage flooding and surface water from town planners and the public means that installation of permeable paving will become the norm over time.  If you can demonstrate knowledge of such systems then you will have happy customers and will win more business.

To find out more about the role of permeable paving in SuDS sign up for our free CPD training sessions “Formpave Aquaflow SuDS systems” here.