15 Years Experiences of Sustainable Urban Storm Drainage in the City of Malmo, Sweden

Abstract

In the City of Malmo in Sweden the concept of sustainable urban drainage has been applied more systematically since the late 1980's. The characteristic feature of sustainable urban drainage is that aesthetics, multiple use and public acceptance of the drainage facilities play a very important role in the planning. For a successful result a close co-operation between the different technical departments in the city and an active involvement of the public is of greatest importance. The planning of sustainable drainage systems is much more complex and time-consuming than the planning of traditional underground drainage systems. During 15 years experiences of sustainable urban drainage in Malmo a new approach for the planning has evolved. This new approach is described briefly. Today most new developments in the city of Malmo are planned according to the sustainable drainage concept. The ambition is that the urban drainage facilities shall be regarded as a positive asset in the city environment. In the paper some examples are given of how the new types of drainage facilities have been implemented in Malmo.