Attenuation Crates Stop Leeds School Flooding: SuDS Success

At Builders Yard UK, we’re passionate about helping communities manage stormwater effectively, and our recent project at a Leeds primary school is a perfect example of how our attenuation crates can make a real difference. With heavy rainfall becoming more frequent in the UK due to climate change, schools are increasingly at risk of flooding, which can disrupt learning and cause costly damage. In this case study, we’ll walk you through how our team used attenuation crates to solve a persistent flooding problem, ensuring the school stayed dry and compliant with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations.

The Problem: Recurring Floods Disrupt Learning

In late 2024, a primary school in Leeds faced a growing challenge: recurring flooding during heavy rain. The school’s playground and outdoor learning areas would turn into a muddy mess, forcing closures and disrupting classes. The headteacher, Mrs. Sarah Thompson, explained, “Every time it rained heavily, our playground became unusable. We had to cancel outdoor activities, and the water even seeped into classrooms, damaging books and equipment. It was costing us thousands in repairs, not to mention the impact on the children’s learning.”

The school’s location in a low-lying area of Leeds made it particularly vulnerable. With urban development increasing impermeable surfaces like roads and car parks nearby, rainwater had nowhere to go, overwhelming the local drainage system. The school needed a solution that could handle large volumes of stormwater while meeting SuDS requirements set by the Leeds City Council, in line with the UK’s Flood and Water Management Act 2010.

The Solution: Attenuation Crates for Stormwater Management

After a site visit, our team at Builders Yard UK recommended installing our high-quality attenuation crates, specifically the “Select Attenuation Crates” from our product range. These crates are designed to temporarily store excess rainwater and release it slowly, preventing downstream flooding—a key principle of SuDS. We chose this solution because of its flexibility, high storage capacity, and ability to fit into the school’s limited space.

We installed 10 units of our 400 kN/m² attenuation crates, covering a total area of 50m² beneath the school’s playground. The crates, made from durable recycled plastic, offer a 95% void ratio, meaning they can store a significant volume of water in a compact footprint. To ensure proper integration, we paired the crates with permeable paving, allowing surface water to filter through and enter the system naturally. The installation took just one week, with minimal disruption to the school’s schedule.

The Result: A Dry, Safe School Environment

The impact was immediate. During the first heavy rainfall after installation in November 2024, the school’s playground stayed dry—no more muddy puddles or flooded classrooms. The attenuation crates captured excess runoff and released it at a controlled rate into the local drainage system, reducing peak flow by an estimated 90%. This not only prevented flooding but also saved the school approximately £10,000 in potential repair costs from water damage.

Mrs. Thompson was thrilled with the outcome: “Builders Yard’s crates saved our school—no more flooded playgrounds! The children can play outside even after a big rain, and we’ve had no issues with water seeping into the building. It’s been a game-changer for us.”

The system also ensured compliance with SuDS regulations, as required by the Leeds City Council. By managing stormwater at the source, the school reduced pressure on the local sewer system, contributing to broader flood prevention efforts in the area. The project aligns with guidance from the UK government’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which emphasizes sustainable water management to mitigate flood risks.

Why Choose Builders Yard Attenuation Crates?

Our attenuation crates are a top choice for schools, developers, and homeowners across the UK. Here’s why:

• High Storage Capacity: With a 95% void ratio, our crates maximize storage in tight spaces, ideal for urban environments like Leeds.
• Durability: Engineered to last over 50 years, they can handle heavy loads (400 kN/m²), making them suitable for playgrounds, car parks, and roads.
• Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled plastic, they support sustainable development goals.
• Easy Installation: Lightweight and modular, our crates reduce installation time and costs.

This project demonstrates how attenuation tanks and crates can transform flood-prone areas into safe, functional spaces. Whether you’re a school, a developer, or a homeowner, Builders Yard UK has the expertise and products to help you manage stormwater effectively.

Learn More About Attenuation Crates and Tanks

Ready to protect your property from flooding? Explore our range of attenuation crates at Builders Yard UK’s Attenuation Crates page. For more insights on SuDS and stormwater management, check out these authoritative resources:

• DEFRA’s Sustainable Drainage Systems Guidance – Learn about SuDS regulations in the UK.
• The Flood Hub: Sustainable Drainage Systems – A great resource for flood prevention strategies.
• GRAF UK: Stormwater Attenuation Guide – Detailed insights into attenuation systems.

At Builders Yard UK, we’re committed to helping you find the best stormwater management solutions. Contact us today to discuss your project, or visit our shop page to browse our full range of attenuation tanks and crates. Let’s work together to keep your community flood-free!