Delivering quality SuDS: Resources for planning officers
This session will explore the pivotal role planners can play in shaping and securing high-quality sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in new development.
Background
Although England has not yet followed Wales in implementing Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act, the publication of updated national standards for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in June 2025 marks a significant step forward. These new standards provide greater clarity and detail than the previous non-statutory guidance and strengthen expectations for SuDS delivery in England. In parallel, forthcoming updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) may introduce additional policy drivers to support SuDS that reduce flood risk, improve water quality and biodiversity, and create more attractive and resilient places for people to live.
As a result, planning officers responsible for interpreting and applying these policies and standards have an increasingly important role in supporting and challenging developers to deliver effective, multifunctional SuDS.
This webinar will provide an overview of the latest policy and standards landscape, alongside practical resources to support planning officers in evaluating and securing high-quality SuDS across the UK.
Why attend
- Build confidence in identifying and evaluating SuDS that deliver water quality, amenity and biodiversity benefits
- Understand the roles and responsibilities involved in SuDS evaluation process and how this links to high-quality SuDS delivery
- Gain confidence in challenging applicants and designers where proposals do not comply with the NPPF or National Standards for SuDS (England)
- Learn where to access further guidance and support for assessing SuDS proposals
- Earn valuable CPD.
Who should attend
- Planning officers
- Developers
- Local planning authorities
- Flood risk managers
- Consultants
When
Thursday 9 July 2026
10:30 - 12:00
Programme
10:30 Welcome and introduction
Adrien Baudrimont, Senior Research Manager, CIRIA
10:40 Overview of EA and TCPA resources
Sam Kipling, FCRM Senior Advisor, Environment Agency
10:55 Making sense of the latest SuDS standards
Glen Westmore, Co-chair, Association of SuDS Authorities
11:10 Getting the most out of the SuDS pro-forma
Emma Cecil, Senior Civil Engineer, Arup
11:25 Interactive discussion and Q&A
11:55 Closing remarks
Adrien Baudrimont, Senior Research Manager, CIRIA
Fees
| CIRIA members and susdrain Community of Practice members |
Free to attend |
| Non-members |
Free to attend |
Booking
If you are experiencing issues registering online, please complete and return the booking form to Charlotte Draper.
Alternatively please contact us on 07933 181 765 or email our Customer Services team.
Joining instructions will be sent two weeks before the event or one working day prior if the booking is made within this timeframe. The link to attend the webinar is strictly personal and should not be shared.
Terms and Conditions
Click here for details of our terms and conditions that will apply.
Personal data is gathered in accordance with CIRIA's privacy policy.
Further information
For further information on CIRIA membership and other services, please contact:
Telephone: 07933 181 765
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ciria.org
Registration
Registration ends 7/8/2026 10:30 AM GMTDT