More than 40 schools across the Southern Water region have entered into a joint venture to install unique ‘water slowing’ solutions on their premises.
This initiative aims to protect the sewer network during and after episodes of heavy rainfall.
Sewers become shielded from sudden surges
By managing the runoff from hard surfaces such as classroom roofs and playgrounds, the sewers are shielded from sudden surges in volume.
These surges often lead to the activation of storm overflow releases into the environment, protecting residences, businesses, schools, and communities from the destructive impacts of flooding.
This innovative approach is a part of a £1.7m project.
Sustainable drainage systems
The project is co-funded by Southern Water and the Department for Education, which has enabled the implementation of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in schools spread across Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.
In the recent months, students have embraced the installation of raingarden planters and water butts.
These installations provide an alternative route for water, which would otherwise be directly channeled into drains and subsequently into the combined sewer network.
Engaging pupils and staff on other critical issues
In addition to the physical upgrades, the project has facilitated a broader engagement with school pupils and staff on other critical issues.
These include flooding protection measures and efficient water use practices.
Schools taking part
A total of 13 schools on the Isle of Wight have already reaped the benefits of this project.
These include Ryde Academy, Bembridge Primary School, Brighstone Church of England Primary School, The Bay School, Cowes Primary School, Northwood Primary School, Dover Park Primary, Oakfield Primary School, Binstead Primary School, Chillerton and Rookley Primary School, Yarmouth Church of England Aided Primary School, Wootton Community Primary School, and Holy Cross Primary School.
Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force
This project represents one of the many strategies Southern Water is pursuing to mitigate storm overflows.
These strategies are spearheaded by the Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force.
McNab: Showcases how crucial partnership working is
Nicole McNab, Southern Water’s Project Lead, spoke highly of the project.
She said,
“This is a fantastic project that showcases how crucial partnership working is. I’d like to thank the schools, students and staff for participating in the scheme, as well as the Department for Education for establishing the programme.”
Has stimulated commendable enthusiasm
She praised the participating schools for their active role in slowing down the inflow of rainwater into the network.
Their involvement, according to McNab, has stimulated a commendable enthusiasm amongst the participants.
She added,
“It has given us a great opportunity to explain the work we’re doing to reduce flooding and storm overflows to a younger audience and answer any questions teachers may have.
“We’re working together to reduce storm overflows and protect our rivers and seas.”
Image: South Bank Steve under CC BY 2.0
