Water sensitive urban design (WSUD) is a means of using water to mimic the natural process of retaining, filtering and infiltrating stormwater near to where it falls.
This approach promotes the capture and use of water to support healthy vegetation in streetscapes and constrained urban areas, while minimising the demand for potable water.
General
- A WSUD streetscape integrates road layout, vehicular and pedestrian requirements with water management needs. It uses design measures such as maximising pervious areas, local stormwater detention (and retention) in road reserves and managed landscaping.
- For maximum effectiveness, measures need to be carefully designed as part of an overall strategy that considers local site conditions.
- Integrate plants and vegetative systems into streetscapes to naturally filter stormwater, remove pollutants and create attractive green spaces.
- Ensure that streetscapes can accommodate heavy rainfall and flooding without compromising safety or functionality, through careful elevation, water flow management and drainage design.
