SuDS Management Train
A hierarchical approach to surface water drainage that uses a sequence of SuDS techniques -- from source control through site control to regional control -- to manage runoff progressively.
The SuDS management train is a core concept in sustainable drainage design, defined in the CIRIA SuDS Manual (C753). It describes a sequence of drainage techniques applied in series, from the point where rainfall first hits the ground through to the point of discharge. Each stage in the train provides an opportunity to reduce runoff volume, attenuate peak flows, and improve water quality.
The management train typically consists of four levels:
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Prevention: Good housekeeping measures that reduce runoff and pollution at source. Examples include minimising impermeable areas, keeping surfaces clean, and using water-efficient landscaping.
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Source control: Managing runoff as close to its origin as possible. Techniques include green roofs, permeable paving, rainwater harvesting, and filter strips at the edges of hard surfaces.
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Site control: Collecting and managing runoff from multiple source-control features at the site scale. Swales, detention basins, and below-ground geocellular storage operate at this level.
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Regional control: Large-scale features that serve multiple sites or catchments, such as retention ponds, wetlands, and flood storage areas. These are typically the final stage before discharge to a watercourse.
The principle is that runoff should pass through as many stages as practicable, with each stage removing pollutants and attenuating flows. The LLFA and planning authority expect to see evidence of the management train approach in submitted drainage strategies.
Aegaea applies the management train hierarchy across all surface water drainage designs, as detailed in our SuDS design guide.