Another block on our walk

On our walk this afternoon we encountered this block paved desert! It made us think about how effective these ubiquitous blocks are in nurturing and sustaining our increasingly built environment.

On closer research I discovered it’s not as bad as it first looks as all groundwork, paved, blocked or smothered with tarmac is now subject to SuDs. (Sustainable Drainage systems.) In England these regulations are intended to ensure that whatever surface is used, it must facilitate water drainage, filtration, storage and minimise any flood risk at all times.

I have noticed that all the new homes around here have a complex network of deep banked streams and frequent wildlife ponds. Flash flooding off the steep Cotswold escarpment is a perpetual threat. Lack of rain this year, however, means all these water containment measures are barely trickling at the moment.

Another great catch up with an Edinburgh friend on the video thingy this morning. Further strategic planning for our potential house purchase also continued with no definite news yet of a contract exchange.

I also cut the lawn in our rental house today.