Communicating the effects of Rainfall on our outdated Sewer Network
Developing, Visualising and Implementing a SuDS Strategy that Works
At Layer.studio, we believe great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about clarity. That’s why our team recently developed a series of engaging, simplified sketches to show how stormwater surges affect the North West’s aging combined sewer networks and how Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) can help ‘slow the flow’.
When heavy rainfall hits our towns and cities, traditional drains often funnel water straight into combined sewers—pipes that carry both rainwater and wastewater. This sudden volume overwhelms treatment facilities, forcing operators to spill untreated sewage into rivers to prevent flooding homes and streets. In 2023 alone, England’s North West reported over 440,000 hours of sewage spills into local waterways.
Our sketches show in clear terms how SuDS can interrupt this cycle. Features like rain gardens, permeable paving, wetlands, and swales act as natural buffers. They collect, store, and gradually release stormwater, rather than letting it rush straight into pipes. By slowing the flow, SuDS systems put far less pressure on wastewater treatment works. This means less chance of emergency discharges and cleaner rivers across the region. In simple terms:when rainwater is given room to soak, filter, and pause before joining the sewer, it dramatically reduces the risk of spills during storms.
These sketches are more than just diagrams—they’re tools to help clients, communities, and decision-makers visualise a problem and understand the positive impact of nature-based drainage solutions. Whether designing public realm strategies, shaping masterplans, or advising on planning policies, we’ve found clear, accessible graphics are often the most effective way to build consensus around change.
As climate change drives more extreme rainfall events, understanding and communicating the case for sustainable drainage has never been more important. Our team will continue to combine visual storytelling with technical expertise to help cities and towns adapt.
Matt Warner, Director of Landscape at Layer Studio says: “Sometimes the biggest challenges—and their solutions—need to be communicated through clear, simple graphics. Our team’s ability to quickly and coherently get a message across visually is essential to every project we undertake. Whether it’s explaining how SuDS reduce sewer over flows or illustrating a public space concept, effective storytelling is at the heart of our approach.”
