Responsible water management is essential in the context of increasingly unpredictable weather conditions. One of the most effective forms of drainage is a soakaway: a simple, effective, and eco-friendly method of dispersing excess surface water. Bournemouth, a picturesque coastal city in the UK, is one example where the use of soakaways has been particularly significant. Let’s take an in-depth look at why Bournemouth makes use of soakaways, and how it benefits from this effective bournemouth soakaways drainage solution.
Bournemouth is known for its seven miles of golden sands and beautiful coastal view. However, due to its geographical location and recent climate changes, the city is prone to heavy rainfall, leading to water accumulation and potential site flooding. These factors have necessitated the widespread use of an effective, sustainable, and efficient drainage solution – soakaways.
A soakaway is a sub-surface structure into which surface water is conveyed to allow for dispersal into the ground. It is designed to manage the surge of surface water after heavy rainfall and acts as a buffer, protecting properties from potential flood damage. The fundamental principle of a soakaway system is to hold the water and allow it to slowly soak into the ground. In Bournemouth, this drainage solution has proven to be extremely effective for homes, businesses, and public areas.
Soakaways in Bournemouth are primarily composed of a pit (generally dug into the ground) filled with coarse stone, rubble, or a modular attenuation system that allows rainwater to drain directly into it and slowly seep into the ground. One of the primary factors for the success of soakaways in this area is the city’s predominantly sandy soil, which is ideal for soakaway installations due to its high percolation rate. This quick absorption of water into the ground helps prevent flooding and reduces pressure on the city’s primary drainage systems.
In rural areas of Bournemouth, where access to main drainage systems may be limited, the use of soakaways is even more crucial. A well-installed soakaway system ensures that excess surface water is handled effectively, avoiding the risk of ponding and soil erosion.
Another benefit of soakaways is their environmentally friendly aspect. By allowing the water to percolate slowly through the ground, they contribute to recharging groundwater levels. Also, since soakaways are a natural form of drainage, they do not require electricity to operate, conserving energy.
Proper maintenance is key to ensure the long-term efficiency of soakaways and to prevent drains from emissions and blockages. This usually involves regular cleaning to remove any silt or debris and a periodic inspection by a professional drainage company to ensure optimal performance.
In conclusion, Bournemouth’s implementation of soakaway systems serves as an excellent example of effective, sustainable drainage solutions. Suitable for spaces with the right soil conditions and efficient in managing excess surface water, soakaways are a win-win selection for both property protection and environmental conservation. Whether you’re facing issues with flooding, ponding, or ground saturation, especially after periods of heavy rain, consider the Bournemouth-style solution – a well-made soakaway might just be what your property needs.
