New funding available to futureproof schools with SuDS

The Department for Education (DfE) has relaunched the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in Schools initiative for 2026/27, to provide funding for the design and construction of SuDS. The programme will fund up to 50% of total project costs, with applicants required to secure the remaining funding.

Implementing SuDS alongside traditional drainage infrastructure is a solution that comes with a plethora of benefits. With intelligent SuDS designs, we can help prevent closures, prioritise the safety of pupils and protect property and grounds from damage – futureproofing schools.  SuDS also provide great educational opportunities for pupils, as well as improving biodiversity and bringing aesthetic benefits to school grounds.

Successful applications must demonstrate not only flood risk reduction benefits but also wider benefits, including increased access to green space, reduced inequality and deprivation, and enhanced ecological outcomes.

Applications will be assessed against six key criteria which are weighted in importance: surface water flood history (30%), benefits (30%), costs (17.5%), accessible greenspace inequality and deprivation (10%), project stage (7.5%) and number of schools within the scheme/application (5%). Full details on the criteria can be found on the government website.

At EPG, we are well positioned to support your application and maximise your chances of success. Highlights of the opportunity and our capabilities include:

• Technical Compliance: Applicants must engage qualified professionals, such as Landscape Architects or Civil Engineers, to deliver the technical aspects. EPG has a unique approach, providing a co-ordinated landscape and engineering team, well-experienced in SuDS design. Designs must comply with CIRIA Report C753 The SuDS Manual – which EPG co-authored.
• Design & Build Capability: As part of a global design, engineering and management group, Group construction business Carrick Construction is experienced in environmental builds. This means that we can provide a seamless, end-to-end service, with one point of communication.

SuDS rain garden and planter which were installed at Estcourt School, designed by EPG and installed by Group company, Carrick Construction

How EPG can support your application:

• Assistance in Securing Match Funding: Securing the required 50% match funding may be a challenge for some applicants. However, third-party contributors, such as local water companies, are eligible sources. EPG can support your case by modelling sewer networks alongside surface water flooding scenarios to demonstrate the potential reduction in flows to the public sewer system. This can help justify a financial contribution from the water company.
• Flood Evidence and Performance Standards: The application requires primary or secondary evidence of surface water flooding (e.g., photos or media reports). EPG can strengthen your application by interpreting Environment Agency flood risk maps and undertaking hydraulic modelling to substantiate your evidence. We can also determine and validate the required level of protection the proposed SuDS features will deliver through performance calculations.
• Demonstrating Project Readiness: Applicants should show that their project is significantly progressed and ready for delivery. EPG can prepare necessary technical reports, calculations, and drawings to support this. We can also assist with surveys, data modelling, final design work, and tender preparation, although these additional services may incur costs that are not covered by the funding.

Key Deadlines:

• Applications must be submitted by 09:00 AM on Monday, 20 October 2025.
• The window for submitting questions or seeking clarification closes at 5:00 PM on Friday, 8 August 2025. We strongly recommend beginning the application process as soon as possible to allow ample time for queries and technical preparations.

Together, we can deliver SuDS that not only meet technical standards but also bring lasting flood alleviation and environmental benefits to your area.

The gov.uk website details all requirements on eligibility and suitability Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in Schools 2026/27 – GOV-UK Find a grant. Once reviewed, EPG would be delighted to talk to you about supporting your application. Please email enquiries@epg-ltd.co.uk or call 01274 565131.