A Forensic Investigation of Water Sensitive Urban Design Problems

Abstract

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) is a relatively new concept in Australia and aims to manage and conserve water as well as to resolve some of the problems caused by conventional urban drainage systems. The design and construction issues with conventional systems are well documented. However, this is less so with WSUD systems. There are many problems that may not be foreseeable both during the design stage and operational phase of the WSUD system. These can contribute to the partial or total failure of a system. Nevertheless, many WSUD devices have been implemented and are successfully in operation. It is often difficult to encourage designers to share their learning experiences. Mostly, only the most successful elements of projects are showcased. This paper presents experiences from case studies that have faced difficulties during or after construction. Several examples of problematic WSUD elements in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, have been presented photographically and the issues surrounding the systems have been highlighted. In nearly all cases, the problems have since been resolved and the subsequent learning experiences are shared in this paper.