How SureSet Resin Bound Paving Supports SuDS Compliant Design
Introduction: Sustainable Drainage Is No Longer Optional
With increasing pressure on urban drainage systems and stricter planning requirements, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) have become a vital part of modern landscaping and construction. Developers, local authorities, and homeowners alike are seeking surfacing solutions that manage surface water effectively while remaining visually appealing.
SureSet resin bound paving is a proven, SuDS compliant surfacing solution that combines permeability, durability, and design flexibility, making it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial projects.
What Are SuDS and Why Do They Matter?
SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) are designed to manage rainfall close to where it falls, reducing surface water runoff, flood risk, and pollution entering natural watercourses.
Key SuDS objectives include:
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Slowing surface water runoff
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Encouraging natural infiltration
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Improving water quality
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Enhancing biodiversity and amenity value
Traditional impermeable surfaces often contribute to flooding by directing water into overloaded drains. In contrast, permeable paving systems, such as SureSet, form a core component of SuDS strategies.
How SureSet Resin Bound Paving Supports SuDS
1. Fully Permeable Surface
SureSet resin bound paving is laid using a clear, UV stable resin that coats each aggregate particle while leaving voids between them. These voids allow water to drain freely through the surface and into a permeable base.
This means:
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Rainwater filters naturally into the ground
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Surface water runoff is dramatically reduced
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Standing water and puddling are eliminated
When installed on a suitable permeable sub-base, SureSet meets SuDS requirements without the need for additional drainage infrastructure.
2. Reduces Flood Risk and Drainage Pressure
By allowing water to infiltrate at source, SureSet helps:
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Minimise pressure on public sewers
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Reduce flood risk during heavy rainfall
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Support local authority flood management strategies
This makes resin bound paving particularly valuable in urban environments, driveways, car parks, pathways, and public realm schemes.
3. Planning for Friendly and SuDS Compliance
In many UK planning authorities, permeable driveways are permitted without planning permission under permitted development rules. SureSet resin bound paving aligns with these requirements, making it a practical and compliant choice for new developments and retrofits.
Its SuDS compliance can:
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Simplify planning approval
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Reduce the need for costly drainage designs
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Support BREEAM and sustainability targets
4. Improves Water Quality
As water passes through the resin bound surface and sub-base, pollutants such as oils and sediments are naturally filtered out before reaching groundwater or watercourses. This supports SuDS goals around water quality management, not just quantity.
5. Long Term Sustainable Performance
SureSet is engineered for longevity and low maintenance:
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No loose stones migrating into drains
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Weed resistant surface
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Durable under pedestrian and vehicular traffic
A long lifespan means fewer replacements, lower material waste, and a reduced environmental footprint over time, key principles of sustainable construction.
Aesthetic and Design Benefits
SuDS solutions don’t need to compromise on appearance. SureSet offers:
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A wide range of natural aggregates and recycled colours
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Seamless, contemporary finishes
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Custom designs, borders, and logos
This makes it ideal for projects where visual impact and sustainability must work together.
Applications Where SureSet Excels
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Residential driveways
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Commercial car parks
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Pathways and cycle routes
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Public realm and urban regeneration projects
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Schools, hospitals, and retail developments
Conclusion: SureSet as a Smart SuDS Solution
SureSet resin bound paving delivers more than just visual appeal, it provides a practical, proven solution for SuDS-compliant surface water management. By reducing runoff, supporting infiltration, and enhancing sustainability credentials, SureSet helps futureproof developments against climate challenges while meeting modern planning expectations.
For projects seeking a balance between performance, compliance, and design, SureSet resin bound paving is a smart investment in sustainable drainage.
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