Artificial underground storage of water can be problematic.

The preference in South Dublin is on nature-based solutions in the form of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), which mimic nature by holding and treating rainwater on or nearer the surface, while additional benefits include water filtration, biodiversity enhancement, and decreased flood risk.

SuDS can prove to be a more cost-effective construction, allowing for the simple removal of blockages and reducing maintenance costs in the long term.

The Sustainable Drainage Explanatory Design and Evaluation Guide has been created to support the Council’s County Development Plan 2022-2028, to ensure SuDS are incorporated into future developments in the County. To complement this guide, a SuDS Householder’s Guide has been developed dedicated to solutions for around the home. A supporting video for the householder’s guide has also been prepared. 

South Dublin County Council’s Sustainable Drainage Systems guidance documents and new policies contained in the County Development Plan will support measures to favour natural solutions to managing water on-site in favour of underground attenuation. South Dublin County Council will continue to monitor developments to ensure that Sustainable Drainage Systems are being implemented in new developments.