Did you know that the drainage systems in new housing estates could hold the key to boosting urban biodiversity?
Join us for an exciting webinar exploring how Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) — the shallow channels, grassy basins, and ponds built into modern developments — can do far more than manage rainwater and prevent flooding. When designed with nature in mind, SUDS can become vital habitats for birds, amphibians, and especially pollinators like bees and hoverflies — bringing wildlife right to our doorsteps. We have two guest speakers:
Andrada Opris, a researcher at Edinburgh Napier University, will share findings from her study of 60 SUDS sites across Scotland’s Central Belt. Her work investigates how these overlooked features can support pollinator communities and what design choices make the biggest difference for nature. This research is helping shape national policy — and it could help shape housing developments near you too.
Craig Macadam is Co-Leader and Director of Conservation at Buglife – The Invertebrate Conservation Trust. Following 11 years in the Scottish Water industry, he now oversees Buglife’s conservation, advocacy, and planning work. Craig is a freshwater specialist with a particular interest in less well-known species and overlooked habitats.
Come along to this webinar to learn more about these drainage systems and how you can put pressure on Councils to ensure they are designed with nature in mind.
Planning Democracy and APRS are working together on these webinars. We rely on donations to keep our work going and so we have a suggested donation for participants, however we don’t want anyone to be unable to attend due to the cost so there are also free tickets available.
Part of the Planning Democracy and APRS Joint Webinar Series. You can find out about the other events and last year's webinars here.
Planning Democracy is a grassroots organisation who campaign for greater public and environmental voice in Scottish planning.
APRS is Scotland's Countryside Charity. We campaign to protect, enhance and promote Scotland’s countryside and rural landscapes for everyone’s benefit, and we support others to do the same.
Both organisations are funded by donations so we are asking for a contribution from those who feel they benefit from taking part - please choose from one of the ticket options that best suits you. If you want to make a larger or more regular donation you can support APRS or Planning Democracy at the following links:
https://aprs.scot/support-aprs/ https://www.planningdemocracy.org.uk/donate/
