A new nature-based Sustainable Drainage (SuDS) scheme has been installed at the Belmont Hall housing development in Antrim, delivered by Antrim Construction in collaboration with the design team and supported by the Construction Employers Federation (CEF).

The scheme was developed as a pilot project with engagement from Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins visited the site to view the SuDS in operation and meet representatives from the contractor and design team. The project demonstrates how nature-based solutions such as grassed swales, raingardens, and detention ponds can be integrated into new housing developments.

-- Advertisement --

The Minister highlighted the importance of SuDS for sustainable drainage and wastewater management, noting that the Department’s Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Bill, currently progressing through the NI Assembly, will provide powers for regulating the design, approval and maintenance of such systems.

A public consultation on SuDS, launched in September 2025, is open until December 19 and seeks views on implementing policies for future housing developments.

Minister Kimmins added: "It is important that everyone has the opportunity to express their views on how we regulate for nature-based SuDS in new developments, in a way that helps to deliver improvements to our drainage and wastewater infrastructure."

For further information on the consultation, visit: Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in New Housing Developments.