When it comes to SuDS projects, you should be thinking about more than just the underground storage space.

When we work on the Stormbloc® Optimum attenuation system it should not come as a surprise to learn that we think a lot about space.

The obvious space that we’ve been thinking about has been the space beneath the ground in a SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) project where the Stormbloc® Optimum provides stormwater storage and infiltration—but there are other spaces that are no less important.

Construction materials and the components of SuDS systems can be large and bulky. They must be transported to a construction site, and they may need to be stored on site for a period of time. If construction is delayed for any reason, they may even need to remain on site for extended periods.

Construction sites are busy, congested places, however, and storage options may be limited. Space is at a premium, and everything that takes up space has a cost. In an ideal world, items should be delivered to site and installed immediately—but in reality this is rarely feasible. So, wherever possible, SuDS systems should take up minimal space.

Delivery, too, is a factor. For building contractors and associated logistics companies, the space in a lorry has a direct cost. If the space of SuDS systems can be reduced, two loads can potentially be cut to one—creating a significant saving in both time and cost.

The new Stormbloc® Optimum geocellular blocks are nested for transportation and storage, meaning that the space required in vehicles and on site is drastically reduced.

It’s often easy to focus on the end result and overlook the steps required to achieve that end result. While SuDS system providers should continue to work closely with engineers to develop flow control, stormwater treatment, storage and infiltration solutions that meet the needs of the sites on which they’re installed, they should also make sure that they work with contractors and developers to make sure that delivery and installation is easy and efficient.

Each SuDS project is a collaboration, and every stakeholder has to balance a range of objectives and challenges if the project is to succeed. The more we can do to remove the challenges for each other, the more cost-effective our SuDS projects will be.