A new sustainable drainage planter system installed at a supported housing complex on the Isle of Wight has reduced the risk of surface water flooding — while improving residents’ mental and physical wellbeing.
Surface water management specialist Sudsplanter Ltd partnered with Southern Water to deliver the initiative at Bucklers View, a supported housing development managed by Southern Housing in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.
The rainwater planter system has helped divert roof run-off away from the sewer network, reducing surface water flooding and contributing to a healthier green environment. It has also created habitats for wildlife and fostered a stronger sense of community among residents, helping the site win a local horticulture award for two consecutive years.
Reducing sewer overflows
Southern Water is introducing a range of nature-based and engineered solutions across the Isle of Wight to divert rainwater from combined sewers and reduce storm overflows into rivers and coastal waters. These actions form part of the utility’s Pathfinder Project under its Clean Rivers & Seas Task Force.
As part of this programme, Sudsplanter supplied more than 250 SuDSPlanter® units across the island, including installations at nearly 100 schools and several residential developments. Bucklers View was identified as an ideal location due to its elevated position in the catchment and large roof area, which allowed multiple downpipes to be disconnected and redirected.
Networked planters bring added benefits
Working with Southern Water engineers, Sudsplanter designed and installed a network of 12 bespoke planters. Acting as green infrastructure, they slow the flow of stormwater, filter sediment and store excess water for reuse during dry periods. Hydraulic modelling determined the system’s capacity — up to 5,300 litres of rainwater diverted away from sewers during storms.
Each planter was filled with a specialist soil mix and planted with species suited to the site’s location. All units are manufactured from 100% recyclable materials, supporting circular-economy goals.
Community wellbeing and biodiversity
The benefits extend beyond drainage. The planters have transformed the outdoor space into a thriving garden that promotes physical activity, social interaction, and wellbeing among residents. Accessible, raised units enable participation for those with limited mobility, helping create an inclusive green space that attracts pollinators and wildlife.
Resident Linda said:
“Our garden has truly helped our wellbeing and encouraged us to use gardening as a form of physiotherapy. It has brought us together — neighbours helping each other, sharing advice and laughter.”
Another resident, Jaqueline, added:
“We now look forward to getting up in the morning. Our garden, supported by Sudsplanter, Southern Water and Southern Housing, has reignited our passion for gardening and enhanced our health and wellbeing.”
Partnership approach
Jo Butterfield, Sustainability Engagement Lead at Southern Housing, said:
“We want residents to feel proud of where they live, and the rainwater planter project at Bucklers View has delivered so much more than sustainable drainage. It has created a shared green space that encourages community, supports wellbeing, and gives residents a real sense of ownership.”
Ian Deakin, Senior Storm Overflow Engineer at Southern Water, commented:
“This project gave us an opportunity to implement innovative solutions and work closely with local partners such as Southern Housing and Sudsplanter. The benefits are multifaceted — reducing flood risk, building climate resilience, improving biodiversity, and enhancing community wellbeing.”
Lorna Davis, Director at Sudsplanter Ltd, concluded:
“Our partnership with Southern Water and Southern Housing has created an accessible garden that residents genuinely enjoy. Large-roofed buildings like supported housing complexes are ideal for sustainable drainage systems. The Bucklers View project is a model that can easily be replicated across similar developments nationwide.”
