Modular geocellular systems: a SuDS solution for surface water management

Latest News Wed, Sep 2, 2026 8:27 AM

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of above and below ground drainage systems, Brett Martin offers a comprehensive range of underground drainage solutions – including systems designed to help specifiers manage surface water effectively, while meeting increasingly stringent planning and environmental requirements.

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)

Brett Martin’s modular geocellular system, StormCrate55, can play an important role within a Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) strategy for commercial and residential developments.

By providing temporary underground storage for stormwater, StormCrate55 helps manage rainfall close to where it falls, reducing the volume and rate of surface water entering conventional drainage infrastructure.

Used as part of a SuDS strategy, geocellular systems can help reduce flood risk, relieve pressure on sewer infrastructure, protect local watercourses and contribute towards more resilient developments that are better equipped to manage periods of heavy rainfall.

Applications at a glance

  • Stormwater management: StormCrate55 soakaway crates provide an effective means of collecting and temporarily storing stormwater below ground, helping to reduce surface water run-off and flood risk.
  • Rainwater infiltration: StormCrate55 can be wrapped in a permeable geotextile, allowing stored water to gradually infiltrate the surrounding ground and return to the water table.
  • Rainwater attenuation: Alternatively, StormCrate55 can be surrounded by an impermeable geomembrane to create a sealed underground tank. The outlet is controlled so that stored stormwater is released gradually back into the drainage system over a longer period.

StormCrate55 in numbers

  • 237.5 litres - the storage capacity of each 1200mm x 600mm x 347mm module. Four crates create 1m³ of underground storage, while a 95% void ratio maximises the volume available for stormwater.
  • 15.5kg - the weight of each factory-assembled module, enabling StormCrate55 units to be quickly installed on site.
  • 562kN/m² – the load-bearing strength of each unit. StormCrate55 is designed for trafficked and untrafficked applications, including landscaped areas, pedestrian spaces, parking areas, driveways and access areas.
  • Made with 100% recycled polypropylene – combining structural performance and efficient water storage with a more resource-conscious approach to manufacture.

Technical support

Effective stormwater management requires more than selecting individual components. Brett Martin supports its underground drainage range with technical expertise ranging from drainage specifications to design and loading calculations and site support.

Brett Martin’s comprehensive range of underground pipes, fittings and stormwater management solutions enables specifiers to develop integrated drainage strategies from collection and conveyance through to attenuation or infiltration.

With surface water management being fundamental to resilient development,

StormCrate55 provides specifiers with a flexible, high-performance solution for incorporating effective stormwater management into below-ground drainage design.

To find out more, visit www.brettmartin.com.

In association with Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage


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Speedwell Industrial Estate
Stephenson Rd
Staveley
Chesterfield
S43 3JP
United Kingdom
T: 01246 280000
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