A new document, Reimagining Rainwater in Highways, has been published to help those managing highways and urban spaces make informed decisions about the inclusion of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in existing road infrastructure. The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) is amongst the contributors and supporters, underscoring its importance to the future of sustainable public real areas. 

Commissioned by the Greater London Authority and produced by CIRIA, Robert Bray Associates, and Stormwater Shepherds, the document offers practical, non-technical guidance on how SuDS can be effectively integrated into highway projects. It is particularly aimed at local authorities, engineers, and urban planners tasked with ensuring safe travel, efficient drainage, and broader public-realm benefits. 

Rather than calling for a wholesale step change, the report recognises that SuDS are already being used successfully across the UK. It focuses on consolidating good practice, sharing lessons learned, and supporting wider adoption.  

The report covers those SuDS designed and installed to manage runoff from roads that discharge to surface waters, providing a selection of case studies of best practice.  

CIHT’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting best practice in highway design and sustainability. By supporting this publication, CIHT helps ensure professionals across the transport and infrastructure sectors have access to practical, applicable information for delivering greener, more resilient urban spaces.

The full report is now available here: SuDS sector guidance | London City Hall

Further CIHT resources on SuDS