Drainage policy

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Purpose of policy

East Sussex County Council (The Council) recognises the vital role played by the local highway network in supporting communities, the economy, and public safety. 

The Council is committed to ensuring that the highway drainage system is managed in a way that delivers the best possible network for the investment available. A targeted, risk-based approach to the maintenance of drainage assets will ensure that surface water on the highway is captured and discharged appropriately, minimising flood risk and disruption. 

In carrying out this work, The Council will: 

  • Meet its statutory obligations as Highway Authority and Lead Local Flood Authority. 

  • Support The Council’s Priorities, Local Transport Plan, and Highway Service Outcomes. 

  • Contribute to wider objectives for resilience, environmental protection, and climate adaptation. 

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Policy statement

The Council is committed to a risk-based, lifecycle approach to drainage asset management. Resources are directed to the most critical assets and highest-risk locations, ensuring effective surface water management, minimising flooding, and supporting climate adaptation. 

The policy aligns with statutory duties, national best practice and The Council’s Highway Asset Management Policy and Strategy. It provides the framework for the Drainage Asset Management Plan 2025–2030, which contains operational standards and performance targets. 

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Delivery model and contractor role

Highway drainage services are delivered through The Council’s term maintenance contract. 

The Contractor is responsible for: 

  • Delivering routine and reactive drainage maintenance, including inspection, cleansing, and repairs. 

  • Maintaining and updating the drainage asset inventory in dedicated asset management and GIS systems. 

  • Implementing a risk-based approach to prioritise maintenance and renewal. 

  • Supporting flood response during severe weather events. 

  • Managing and regulating connections to the highway drainage system. 

The Council monitors The Contractor’s performance against agreed Key Performance Indicators, as defined in the Drainage Asset Management Plan. 

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Supporting information

Related documents

  • Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Policy and Strategy 

  • Drainage Asset Management Plan 2025–2030 

  • Local Flood Risk Management Strategy 

  • Highways Commuted Sums Policy and Guidance Note 

  • Highway Drainage Connections Guidance 

  • Highway Drainage Connections Guidance 

Legal Framework and Duties

  • Highways Act 1980 – duty to maintain highways, including drainage. 

  • Flood and Water Management Act 2010 – duties as Lead Local Flood Authority. 

  • Environment Act 2021 – biodiversity and water quality requirements. 

  • Land Drainage Act 1991 – riparian responsibilities and enforcement powers. 

  • Water Framework Directive (UK legislation) – pollution prevention.

Best Practice Guidance: 

  • Well-Managed Highway Infrastructure (UKRLG, 2016)
  • CIRIA SuDS Manual
  • Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme (HMEP) Guidance 
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Policy development

Policy Owner: Highway Asset Management Team 

Review Date:  September 2028 

Version control:
Version Approved by
Version 1.0 - Highway Drainage Policy Lead Member for Transport and Environment – April 2016 
Version 1.1 – Highway Drainage Policy  Lead Member for Transport and Environment – 19 November 2018
Version 2.0 – Highway Drainage Policy  Approved by Lead Member for Transport and Environment – 8 September 2025 
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