The new code only applies to Water Companies in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all continuing with the guidance in place. The adoption code is significant as it provides the mechanism by which water companies can secure the adoption of a wide range of SuDS components that are compliant with the document. There are however some notable exceptions to the adoptable components including green roofs, pervious pavements and filter strips. These components may form part of the drainage design but will not be adopted by the WaSC.
It is hoped that this new mandatory code will help to enable more sustainable new developments that also deliver a range of multi-functional benefits to communities. It has the potential to deliver better managed and more integrated surface water systems that align more closely with government and regulatory policy and incorporate the four pillars of SuDS including amenity, biodiversity and water quality.