In this article we cover:

  • What is SuDS and why it’s important to the planning authorities
  • What the new SuDS Proforma is and how it works
  • How the scheme simplifies planning for one-off homes
  • Steps to complete and submit the form correctly

Self-builders in Belfast may find it easier to secure planning permission thanks to a new pilot scheme launched by Belfast City Council (BCC) and NI Water (NIW).

The pilot scheme will see NI Water evaluate whether a new development’s proposal to introduce SuDS to their project is sufficient to prevent it from making an objection to the planning application.

All graphics from Managing Rainfall Runoff from Individual Properties by NI Water (2025)

SuDS is a way of managing rainfall that minimises the negative impacts on the quantity and quality of runoff whilst maximising the benefits of amenity and biodiversity for people and the environment.

Everything from green roofs to water butts are considered a part of a SuDS strategy; other examples below from NI Water.

What the pilot is

The initiative introduces a Single Residential Unit Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) Proforma, designed to streamline the planning process for one-off homes while supporting surface water management in line with BCC’s Local Development Plan: Plan Strategy 2035.

By completing this new form, applicants can demonstrate that their proposed drainage system complies with the council’s requirements. NI Water says using the proforma will also help speed up agreements for connections to the public sewer system.

How it works

To avail of the scheme you need to apply through NI Water’s website to gain approval. Here are the steps involved:

  • Download and complete the SuDS Proforma from NI Water’s website.
  • Submit the form alongside a planning application to BCC’s Planning Service and accompanied by the new SuDS guidance document.
  • The Planning Service will upload the SuDS Proforma to the NI Planning Portal and begin a statutory consultation with NI Water, if the proposal involves intensifying the site’s usage.
  • NI Water’s planning team will then review the submission.
  • If the system is approved, NI Water will not object to the planning application, provided the proposed SuDS system is installed as planned.

BCC has also updated the Climate Change Statement section of its Planning Application Validation Checklist to reflect the launch of this pilot.

The scheme launch follows an April meeting between the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) and NI Water, which focused on sustainable drainage and wastewater capacity issues. Several RSUA members subsequently offered feedback on NI Water’s updated SuDS guidance document.