About Us
SuDS Designs by JMS Engineers works with homeowners, architects, developers and contractors to deliver effective sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).
Experienced consulting civil engineering solutions across East Anglia, London, Essex, Manchester & beyond
SuDS Designs by JMS Engineers brings together over 25 years of industry experience in sustainable drainage and flood risk management. We work with developers, architects, homeowners, and local authorities to deliver SuDS reports, drainage strategies, and flood risk assessments that are clear, practical, and compliant.
Our focus is on making complex engineering straightforward. By combining technical knowledge with a practical approach, we create drainage solutions that satisfy local authority requirements while protecting communities and the environment.
Why SuDS Matter
Flooding and surface water are growing risks in the UK. Here’s why sustainable drainage strategies are essential for every development.
UK properties are at risk of flooding
(Environment Agency)
1 in 6
Annual flood damage cost to the UK economy
£1.3 billion
Winter rainfall is expected to rise by up to 20% by 2050
+20% rainfall
Flooding from surface water accounts for nearly 40% of flood risk in England
40% surface water
What We Do
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SuDS reports and designs tailored for planning approval
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Flood risk assessments and flood reports for safe development
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Surface water drainage strategies and drainage assessments for projects of all scales
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Property flood resilience surveys to safeguard homes and businesses
Sustainable Drainage and Flood Risk Consultants for Planning, Compliance and Resilience
SuDS Designs by JMS Engineers provides SuDS Reports, SuDS Designs, Flood Risk Assessments, and Property Flood Resilience surveys, backed by over 25 years of experience in delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that support planning approval, sustainability, and reduced flood risk.
Where We Work
Our services are available nationwide, with strong coverage in:
Suffolk – Felixstowe, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Lowestoft, Newmarket, Sudbury, Stowmarket, Haverhill & beyond.
A SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) report assesses how surface water runoff is managed on a site, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and reducing flood risks.
A SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) report is crucial for anyone planning a new development, extension or alteration to a property. The SuDS report assesses the site’s drainage characteristics and recommends sustainable drainage systems to manage surface water runoff.
Our expert analysis of drainage characteristics and recommendations for sustainable drainage systems ensure compliance, sustainability, and flood risk mitigation
The incorporation of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) is a requirement for all new developments, and the level of detail required in a SuDS report can vary depending on the application type and the Lead Local Flood Authority’s (LLFA) requirements. LLFAs are increasingly requesting SuDS reports for even the smallest of project due to the increasing risk of flooding and the effects of climate change.
Major developments and those in critical drainage areas or high flood risk zones should flood risk assessments and surface water drainage strategies carried out prior to submission. The local planning authority and LLFA have the final say on whether a SuDS report is required, so it is best to speak to them before submitting a planning application. Sometimes, a more in-depth report, such as included detailed construction design, may be requested either at the planning application stage or to discharge a planning condition.
SuDS Designs by JMS Engineers provide guidance throughout the planning process from start to construction, including assistance with determining flood zone locations and offering design to confirm feasibility and calculate the mitigation against pollution your project can offer.
A SuDS Report can improve your relationship with the environment by ensuring that surface water runoff from your development is managed in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.
Traditional drainage systems can cause flooding, pollution, and erosion, which can harm the natural environment. SuDS seek to mimic natural drainage systems and use a range of techniques to reduce the impact of surface water runoff on the environment.
By investing in a SuDS Report, you can show that you are committed to reducing your development’s impact on the environment, while providing cost effective solutions.
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Entities engaged in residential construction and development projects
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Specialists in real estate, such as architects, urban planners, and real estate agents
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Homeowners and personal property investors
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Corporate entities across different industries
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Insurance underwriters and financial lending institutions
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SuDS reports aid with planning applications, either in the pre-planning stage or to meet specific conditions before planning consent.
They initially examine infiltration SuDS, the preferred surface water management method. The feasibility of such techniques impacts the potential of other SuDS approaches.
The level of detail varies as per the specific demands of your local council – we can help advise what you’ll need from the SuDS report to meet the requirements.
Yes - many local authorities request SuDS Reports even for smaller developments such as house extensions or minor redevelopments, especially in flood risk areas.
While not always legally required, most planning authorities and LLFAs now expect SuDS Reports to support planning applications, especially where surface water management is a concern.
Yes - SuDS Designs offers SuDS Reports across the UK, including London, Manchester, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire, with tailored reports for local planning authority requirements.
FAQs – SuDS Reports, Drainage Design & Flood Risk Assessments
Find answers to common questions about our SuDS Reports, drainage strategies, and flood risk assessments for UK developments.
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Path to a Sustainable Drainage Solution
Effective drainage is essential for gaining planning approval and ensuring developments remain safe and compliant. Surface water management is now a key requirement for local authorities, with SuDS reports and strategies forming a crucial part of the planning process. At SuDS Designs by JMS Engineers, we provide clear, buildable solutions that help developers meet regulations, reduce flood risk, and deliver long-lasting infrastructure.