TfL has completed work on major improvements to the Tolworth Roundabout in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. The scheme, which was partly funded by The Guinness Partnership and Lidl Ltd will deliver much-needed improvements to the roundabout, reducing congestion and protecting bus services against potential congestion from new developments in the area, as well as making it easier for people to walk and cycle.

More than 6,000 square metres of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) have also been installed, partly funded by Thames Water, to help address flooding risks. SuDS are important to preventing the increasing risk of flooding by managing water runoff in a way that mimics natural processes, including through using extra vegetation and rain gardens, which are covered with plants rather than concrete, and permeable paving, which allows some water to percolate into the ground. This slows down the rate at which water enters the sewage system during periods of heavy rain, reducing the risk of flooding on the road network.

The new drainage systems installed at Tolworth,  busy district centre located just off the A3, will not only reduce flooding risks but also help to improve water quality in the rivers and support the Mayor’s aim for swimmable rivers in the capital by 2034. Installing more sustainable drainage is a key part of TfL’s plans to make the capital more resilient and biodiverse and will be increasingly important in future years.  

(Pic – ©Basphoto)