We’re creating a special landscape in Brighton’s Wild Park to reduce flooding and help protect the chalk aquifer which supplies much of the city’s drinking water.
It is made of several shallow planted basins that can hold water during heavy rainfall and manage surface water run-off from the roads.
When it rains, water is stored in a chalk aquifer under the Downs. This provides drinking water for around 365,000 people in the city and beyond. Over the years pollution has caused increasing pressure on the aquifer, putting water quality at risk.
This project is designed to reduce pollution in water running off from roads. The rainscape will capture the water in shallow basins, allowing it to seep slowly and safely into the ground. Road run-off is the third highest cause of water pollution in the UK.
The Wild Park rainscape provides a practical way of adapting to climate change by managing water in better ways that benefits people and nature. It is designed to improve the environment and create a safe and welcoming space for all the community to enjoy.
Artist's impression of Wild Park rainscape when completed.