Swales - Multifunctional Benefits

  

Making space for water
Enhanced storage capacity by integrating geocellular or pipe solutions.

     
  

Surface water management
Site level flow control and conveyance.

     
  

Evaporative cooling
Swales provide cooling via return of moisture to the air through evaporation/evapotranspiration from vegatation. Can reduce local temperatures. Can also reflect sunlight.

     
  

Amenity
Enables easy integration into various designs, provides aesthetics, increase in vegetation, adds water treatment.

     
  

Water quality
Water treatment offered via lateral flow of water through the vegetation in the swale. Enhanced with the inclusion of treatment geotextiles.

     
  

Placemaking
Creating attractive green spaces in urban areas that wouldn’t usually be available.

     
  

Biodiversity
Swales can include a variety of planting which can make a positive contribution to urban biodiversity.

     
  

Asset creation
Addition of gardens/green spaces can increase the aesthetic look of an area adding value to the property/development.