Sustainable drainage on a roadside

Managing Rainwater, Enhancing Place

We're transforming the way rainwater is managed across the North West, harnessing the power of nature and innovative engineering to create places that are greener, healthier and more resilient. Together with communities and local partners, we're shaping vibrant streets, thriving habitats and attractive spaces where people can live, work and connect.

Rainwater Management in the North West

Our leading Rainwater Management Programme is transforming towns, cities and catchments across the North West through nature based solutions that create healthier, greener and more climate resilient places.

With wetter winters, hotter summers and more frequent extreme weather events, the North West faces growing climate challenges. Combined with increasing population growth and urbanisation, this highlights the need for innovative rainwater management solutions that help communities adapt and thrive.

By working collaboratively with Local Authorities, developers and environmental partners, we are embedding rainwater management into the fabric of our towns and cities, helping to create greener, healthier places that support regeneration, active travel and climate resilience.

Reducing spills, managing flood risk, enhancing biodiversity, improving place and adapting to climate change are all reasons to implement rainwater management solutions.

Project Flow

Installing nature-based solutions in schools helps slow, store and manage rainfall where it falls. As well as reducing pressure on drainage systems, these features create greener, more attractive school grounds that enhance biodiversity, support learning and help young people connect with nature.

How we manage rain

Capturing rainwater

Capture 

We capture rain to stop downhill flooding through Natural Flood Management schemes. ​

Rainwater

Attenuate 

We use rainwater management solutions to slow the flow of water entering sewers.​

Disconnecting rainwater

Disconnect

We disconnect surface water​ from our combined sewer system and direct it to​ rivers and canals.​

Garden planter

Reuse 

We help communities use rainwater for everyday tasks like watering plants and cleaning cars.​

Partner with us

Sustainable drainage images. Shows trees and permeable pathways

Join us by applying for funding to create a more resilient North West together​

By working in partnership, we can deliver our best rainwater management solutions. Collaboration enables us to pool expertise, align with local priorities, and co-invest in infrastructure that enhances climate resilience through nature-based solutions, reduce pressure on our wastewater network and protect communities. ​​

Together, we can unlock long-term benefits for the communities we serve and achieve our shared vision for a stronger, greener and healthier North West.

Case studies

Let It Drain

The case studies below support the Flood and Coast guided walking tour on Thursday 11th June 2026.

View Let It Drain case studies