Transport for London (TfL) has completed the largest sustainable drainage system in central London.
The SuDS at Marylebone flyover aims to improve biodiversity and drainage.
Installation boasts over 3,500m2 of rainwater collection space.
New rain gardens enhance resilience against climate change and flooding.
Local collaborations have improved pedestrian access and safety.
Transport for London (TfL) has successfully completed the largest sustainable drainage system (SuDS) in central London, marking a significant advancement in urban infrastructure. Located at the Marylebone flyover, this project utilises more than 3,500m2 of dedicated rainwater collection space, significantly enhancing the area’s ability to manage heavy rainfall and reduce flood risk.
The installation of SuDS at this strategic location is designed not only to boost biodiversity but also to strengthen the city’s resilience against climate change. The site at the intersection of the A5 and Marylebone Flyover, formerly home to the Joe Strummer Subway, now holds the potential to collect and store over 110,000 litres of rainwater. This ambitious initiative also aims to minimise localised flooding and prevent sewer overflows, challenges that are becoming increasingly prevalent due to severe weather events.
The Marylebone site showcases a blend of nature and urban landscape, with rain gardens spread across three corners beneath the flyover. Collectively, these gardens cover an area ample enough to accommodate ten New Routemaster buses. Comprising 11 trees, 95 shrubs, and over 1,100 perennial plants, these green spaces are critical for supporting pollinator species, while their minimal maintenance requirements make them sustainable, long-term additions to the city’s infrastructure.
As part of the broader project, TfL worked closely with Westminster City Council to enhance pedestrian access in the vicinity. This collaboration forms a part of the Safer Junctions programme, which included the closure of the underground subway and the introduction of surface-level, signal-controlled crossings to facilitate pedestrian movement. Improvements to pedestrian routes were further enriched by extending the pavement near Edgware Road Underground Station and removing a left-turn slip lane to create safer pedestrian conditions.
The project is backed by a coalition including the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Thames Water, with financial and maintenance support provided by the Marble Arch London BID. TfL’s Business Plan outlines further investment of £6 million up to the fiscal year 2027/28, underlining an ongoing commitment to expanding green infrastructure initiatives. With an annual goal to install 5,000m2 of SuDS, TfL has already surpassed 70% of its yearly target thanks to this innovative Marylebone Flyover project.
Penny Rees, TfL’s head of healthy streets investment, highlighted the dual functionality of the rain gardens, noting that they not only provide aesthetic improvements and respect Joe Strummer’s legacy but also significantly enhance the drainage system and biodiversity in the local area. Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban, endorsed the project’s multifaceted benefits, emphasising its role in reducing flooding, boosting biodiversity, and ensuring the ecological robustness of the city. Marble Arch London BID’s chief executive Kay Buxton reflected on the involvement of local schoolchildren in the project, pointing to the integral connection between urban developments and fostering community engagement. Craig Boorman, Thames Water’s principal environment engineer, described the ecological significance of transforming urban grey areas into lush green environments, preparing the city for future climatic challenges.
The Marylebone flyover project epitomises the integration of environmental sustainability and urban planning, securing London’s resilience against future environmental challenges.
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