Meristem Design worked with Merton Council to design and deliver a multifunctional rain garden that integrates SuDS features with playful, educational elements to both manage surface water and engage the community. Fully funded through the Ofwat-supported SuDS in Streetworks initiative, the scheme was developed to address flood risk while fostering local awareness, biodiversity, and interaction with the landscape.

Goal

Delivered in line with the London Assembly’s ‘Dig Once’ approach, the primary goal of the scheme was to aid flood risk alleviation by capturing water and slowing drainage speed to ease pressure on local drainage systems. The project also aimed to capture the community’s interest by creating an interactive and educational space to spread SuDS awareness and support the council’s progression towards collective flood resilience.

Scope

The project was located on the kerbside of a junction in Mitcham on Lower Green West, consisting of a 54.8m² rain garden supported by two planters that replaced a pedestrian guard rail and provided a surface for educational features. The scheme made the most out of the small, constrained street space by incorporating play features, two bug hotels, and both educational and interactive signage to create a multifunctional SuDS installation. The rain gardens serves as an extension of the nearby cricket green helping to create a ‘green route’ through the borough.

Solutions

To deliver a space that both manages surface water and engages the community, we designed a multifunctional rain garden that integrates SuDS features with playful, educational elements. Our approach ensured the scheme addressed flood risk while fostering local awareness, biodiversity and interaction with the landscape.

SuDS Integration

Meristem Design combined a 54.8m² rain garden with SuDS planters to slow runoff, increase infiltration and support the area’s long-term flood management strategy.

Interactive Learning Features

Educational and interactive signage was installed to help residents understand how SuDS work and encourage community ownership of their green spaces.

Play Elements

Stepping logs, rubbing posts, play boulders, a balance beam and two bug hotels were incorporated to create a playful environment that connects the community with nature.

Diverse Planting Scheme

A diverse range of plant species was selected to enhance local biodiversity, support pollinators and create a thriving green space for the community.

Impact

The completed rain garden has delivered a range of environmental, educational and social benefits for the local community. Improvements in surface water management and biodiversity help support climate resilience, while the interactive features offer an engaging space that encourages community wellbeing and connection.

Community Engagement

The play features, signage and calls to action encourage the community to explore the rain garden and get involved with watering and looking after it.

Wellbeing Enhancement

The construction of the small but meaningful 'green route' creates a more pleasant, calming corridor for pedestrians to pass through.

Reduction in Runoff

The rain garden captures and slows drainage of surface water from the nearby roads and pavements, by taking water into the sub base of the rain garden where it trickles through and is then controlled before being released into the down stream sewer.

Biodiversity Boost

The introduction of a variety of plant species encourages pollinators which, in turn, will help the greenery thrive for years to come.