On multiple properties along this street, we hope to work with residents to install a series of water storage and re-use measures in people’s homes. This will improve drought resilience, reduce mains water usage and reduce flows entering Mucking Creek.
One main aim here is to intercept rainfall going into our drains. This will reduce pressure on the surface water systems, which can be overwhelmed with high volumes of water during times of heavy rainfall. It will also reduce flows entering Prittle Brook.
We’re also retro-fitting smart water butts in homes and creating a series of community rain gardens throughout the area. Smart water butts check the weather forecast and can release excess water in advance of heavy rainfall to increase capacity. Rain gardens are landscaped in order to slow down and store rainwater runoff. They reduce the risk of flooding and improve water quality. They also provide great natural habitats for wildlife.
Designs may vary but will include rain garden tanks to help store and reuse rainwater which can trickle into the sewers before and after the storms have past.
Households that participate in the scheme will have a consultation with Our Rainwater and the Catchment to Coast team who will work with residents to design a bespoke water storage design to fit in with their home.