At Kenson Highways, we are dedicated to delivering infrastructure solutions that go beyond traditional construction — enhancing environmental resilience, supporting communities, and creating greener, more sustainable urban spaces.
We are proud to have partnered with Redbridge Council to deliver a series of new Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) across the borough. These installations — including rain gardens at Ley Street, Blake Hall Road, and Nightingale Lane — play a vital role in managing surface water and reducing the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.
What Are SuDS and Why They Matter
With increasing instances of extreme weather and intense rainfall events, managing surface water effectively has become a priority for local authorities and communities. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) mimic natural water processes by capturing, holding, and slowly releasing rainwater close to where it falls, helping reduce pressure on traditional sewer networks that can easily become overwhelmed during storms.
Unlike conventional drainage systems that quickly funnel water away, SuDS help control runoff at source, improving flood resilience while delivering a range of environmental benefits. These include improved water quality, increased biodiversity, and enhanced public spaces that bring nature into urban settings.
Delivering Real Benefits in Redbridge
The new rain gardens delivered by Kenson Highways have the capacity to hold over 5,000 litres of rainwater, easing demand on local drainage infrastructure when the weather turns wet. These installations contribute to Redbridge’s wider SuDS programme, which has already managed more than 400,000 litres of surface water to date — significantly reducing the risk of localised flooding.
Beyond their flood mitigation function, the rain gardens also enhance urban green space, providing habitat and forage for pollinators and other wildlife and supporting biodiversity across the borough. The rain garden at Blake Hall Road has been adopted by the Aldersbrook Horticultural Society, demonstrating how sustainable infrastructure can also foster community pride and involvement.
Early Outcomes and Community Impact
Since their installation, these SuDS schemes have helped reduce localised flooding, while improvements to junction layouts — such as at Nightingale Lane — have also enhanced pedestrian safety and streetscape quality.
At Kenson Highways, we are committed to supporting local authorities in delivering projects that combine essential infrastructure needs with environmental and community benefits. By integrating SuDS into highway and public realm improvements, we help create streets that are safer, more resilient, and better connected to nature.
Looking Forward
Sustainable infrastructure will continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping resilient urban environments. As we face the future impacts of climate change, solutions like SuDS will be critical in protecting communities while creating greener, more attractive public spaces.
We look forward to continuing our work with Redbridge Council and other partners on future initiatives that prioritise flood resilience, sustainability, and community wellbeing.
