Portsmouth City Council is inviting community groups, schools and organisations to apply for a new grant to help manage rainwater and reduce local flood risk.

The Community SuDS (sustainable drainage systems) Grant offers up to £2,000 to support the installation of SuDS planters in community locations across the city.

The scheme comes as climate change brings heavier rainfall and longer wet periods. In January 2026, Hampshire experienced its second wettest January since records began, raising the risk of surface water flooding and increasing pressure on the drainage system, which can lead to storm overflows discharging into rivers and seas.

SuDS help manage rainwater in a more natural way by slowing the flow of water into drains, allowing it to soak into the ground or be absorbed by plants. This reduces flood risk, eases pressure on the drainage network and supports local wildlife.

The grant is delivered in partnership with Southern Water, with funding to support the installation of SuDS planters (see image left), including peat-free soil and plants, connection kits, and setup costs where needed. These planters are connected to downpipes and capture rainwater from roofs, storing it temporarily and releasing it slowly.

The grant is open to a range of community sites including: schools, community centres, GP surgeries, social housing spaces and businesses where installations are visible to the public.

Applicants must also help raise awareness of sustainable drainage and the impact of changing rainfall patterns as part of their project.

Cllr Kimberley Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, said: “We know climate change is already affecting our city, with heavier rainfall putting pressure on drainage systems and increasing the risk of flooding. This grant gives communities a practical way to be part of the solution.

“By introducing sustainable drainage, we can reduce flood risk while creating greener, healthier places for people to enjoy. These projects support our vision for Portsmouth to be a green city – with excellent air quality, thriving green spaces and a strong response to climate change that protects our environment for future generations.”

This grant forms part of ‘Nature Positive Portsmouth’, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund through the Nature Towns and Cities programme – a partnership between the Heritage Fund, Natural England and the National Trust.

Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on Monday 29 June 2026. Projects must be completed by 30 June 2027.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/services/environmental-health/flooding/community-grant-for-sustainable-drainage-systems-suds/.