New association supporting delivery of sustainable drainage to be launched at Floodex 2019

Association of SuDS Authorities will act as a single voice to promote sustainable drainage nationally.

A new association supporting the use of sustainable drainage within all new developments will be officially launched during the water industry’s key national trade event, Floodex 2019 at Peterborough Arena, 27-28 Feb 2019.

ASA, the Association of SuDS Authorities, has been created following discussion with Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFAs) across the country, and will be the member organisation for professionals working with Local Authorities in the delivery of sustainable drainage.

Working closely alongside ADA (Association of Drainage Authorities) and the Construction Industry Research and Information Association, CIRIA, ASA will engage with government and industry bodies to provide a single voice in the delivery of sustainable drainage.

ASA is committed to promoting sustainable drainage to ensure future development can keep pace with the challenges of the changing climate, and ensuring that SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) are maintained over the lifetime of a development.

Formed out of the transition of the working group of LLFAs know as Local Authority SuDS Officer Organisation (LASOO), ASA will formally commence as a community interest company on 1 April 2019, and will be launching during the Floodex trade show on 27 February.

Bronwyn Buntine, sustainable drainage team leader at Kent County Council, will be amongst the ASA team introducing the Floodex audience to the new membership body. 'From the inaugural LASOO conference back in June 2017, it soon became apparent there was an appetite for the establishment of a formal association, supporting the delivery of sustainable drainage,' explains Ms Buntine.

The association will act as a support mechanism for those involved in the delivery of sustainable drainage.

'It will be providing support via a series of services, including a closed group web portal to facilitate discussion between association members, as well as hosting a group of technical experts to support members on common issues,' adds Ms Buntine.

'Regional hubs for members will be established, quarterly newsletters and updates will be made available alongside an annual workshop with training courses and webinars. Membership is open to LLFAs and Local Authorities, as well as commercial organisations as Affiliate Members.'

ASA will maintain its close working relationship with ADA and CIRIA, with access to further technical support.

Bronwyn Buntine introduces ASA and looks at the economic and cost benefits of sustainable drainage as she addresses the audience at Floodex 2019. Visit floodex.co.uk for details and to register your free attendance for the trade event for those involved in water level and flood risk management.