Tulse Hill is getting a flood-fighting green makeover

Lambeth Council has given the green light to the project, which will not only tackle the borough’s surface water flooding issues but also bring a much-needed splash of greenery to the area.

What’s happening?

The SuDS project is part of the wider Soak Up Lambeth programme, a borough-wide plan to use natural drainage methods to handle rainfall better. Instead of rainwater rushing straight into our overstretched Victorian sewers and causing floods, SuDS systems let water soak into the ground, easing the pressure on drains. Simple, right?

In Tulse Hill, the new scheme will work its magic in the space between Brailsford Road and Jubilee Primary School. The area will be transformed into a mini nature corridor with:

• Two massive planter beds with permeable surfaces
• A clever new attenuation tank system to manage heavy rain
• Five shiny new trees and lots of greenery
• Handy community features like bike racks and seating

Why does this matter?

Flooding is a serious issue in Lambeth, with 8,500 properties at risk and millions of pounds of infrastructure on the line. And let’s face it, as the weather gets wetter and more unpredictable, it’s not going to get any easier.

By turning grey, boring spaces into vibrant, green ones, SuDS doesn’t just help manage water—it brings loads of extra benefits, like improving air quality, creating shade, and boosting biodiversity. It’s a win-win!

What they’re saying

Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air, is all about it:

“This initiative not only addresses flooding but also transforms hard, neglected surfaces into vibrant green spaces. It’s about creating a sustainable, liveable environment for all residents.”

We love to see it.

What’s next?

The Tulse Hill project is just one part of the £6 million SuDS programme, which is backed by funding from Lambeth Council and a hefty £2.45 million grant from Thames Water. Over in St Matthews, another SuDS scheme is already underway, bringing water management pools, planting, and pathways to the area.

With these projects, Lambeth is building neighbourhoods that are ready for whatever the weather throws at us. Greener, flood-proof, and just a bit nicer to live in—what’s not to love?