Portsmouth City Council has opened applications for a new community grant of up to £2,000 to install sustainable drainage systems, helping reduce surface water flooding across the city.
The Community SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) Grant, delivered in partnership with Southern Water, supports the installation of SuDS planters at community locations throughout Portsmouth. Funding covers peat-free soil, plants, connection kits, and setup costs where required.
The scheme follows a period of heightened flood concern. Hampshire recorded its second wettest January since records began in January 2026, placing increased strain on the city’s drainage network and raising the risk of storm overflows entering local rivers and seas.
SuDS planters connect directly to building downpipes, capturing rainwater from rooftops and releasing it slowly into the ground or through plant absorption. This reduces the volume and speed of water entering the drainage system, lowering flood risk and supporting local wildlife.
Eligible sites include schools, community centres, GP surgeries, social housing spaces, and businesses where installations are visible to the public. Successful applicants will also be required to raise awareness of sustainable drainage and changing rainfall patterns as part of their project.
Councillor Kimberley Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, said: “We know climate change is already affecting our city, with heavier rainfall putting pressure on drainage systems and increasing the risk of flooding. This grant gives communities a practical way to be part of the solution.”
She added: “By introducing sustainable drainage, we can reduce flood risk while creating greener, healthier places for people to enjoy.”
The grant forms part of the Nature Positive Portsmouth initiative, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund through the Nature Towns and Cities programme — a partnership between the Heritage Fund, Natural England, and the National Trust.
Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on Monday, 29 June 2026. All projects must be completed by 30 June 2027.
For further information and to apply, visit the Portsmouth City Council website.
