Cutting down on bills

The Council is taking action to reduce both the causes and impacts of flooding. This sometimes means working in areas that don’t appear to have issues but contribute to flooding downstream. 

We are working with communities to reduce flood risk and make neighbourhoods safer and more pleasant. 

How we're reducing flood risk

We are taking long-term action to protect homes, streets, and open spaces from flooding and to keep waterways clean. This includes:

• improving drainage systems to manage heavy rainfall 
• restoring riverbanks and creating natural flood storage areas 
• de-paving streets and other hard surfaces so rainwater can soak into the ground 
• using raingardens, permeable paving, and other sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) 
• planting more trees and adding green spaces to absorb water, cool streets, and support wildlife 
• working with the Environment Agency and Thames Water on flood protection schemes 
• installing new air quality and water monitoring stations across the borough 
• supporting landowners with guidance from our SuDS design and evaluation guide

These changes reduce flood impacts, prevent pollution from entering rivers, keep neighbourhoods cooler in summer, and create greener, more pleasant streets. 

What you can do to prepare

Simple steps at home can help lower flood risk and limit damage:

• sign up for free Environment Agency flood alerts
• keep drains, gutters, and downpipes clear 
• consider flood protection products like door guards or airbrick covers if you live in a higher-risk area 
• store important items and documents above ground level 
• check if your home insurance covers flood damage 
• de-pave your front garden if possible

if you live near a river, stay alert to weather warnings and local updates. 

De-paving your garden or parking space 

De-paving means replacing hard surfaces like concrete or tarmac with soil, plants, or permeable paving. It helps prevent flooding, reduces pollution, and makes outdoor spaces greener and more biodiverse. 

When rain falls on hard surfaces, water runs straight into drains and sewers. During heavy rain, this can cause flooding and sewage in rivers. By removing some paving, rainwater can soak into the ground naturally, slowing water flow and reducing pressure on drains. 

De-paving also improves gardens, supports wildlife, keeps soil healthy, and cools the area in hot weather. Even small changes, like replacing a paved corner with plants, can make a big difference. 

During a flood

If flooding happens:

• avoid walking or driving through flood water 
• move people, pets, and valuables upstairs or to higher ground if safe 
• turn off gas, water, and electricity if advised

Follow official advice from the Council, Environment Agency, and emergency services 

Working together

Flooding cannot always be prevented, but good preparation reduces risks. The Council is investing in better infrastructure, greener spaces, and warning systems. Residents can take practical steps at home and stay informed. 

Together, we can make Lewisham more resilient to heavy rainfall and protect our homes and neighbourhoods.