Labour Westminster Council is helping our schools tackle climate change at street level. Through the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) for Schools project, we’re turning grey playground corners into green, living planters that soak up rainwater, cut flood risk and give pupils hands-on lessons in nature and sustainability.

Labour-controlled Westminster Council has installed new SuDS planters at schools, including St Gabriel’s Primary in Pimlico and St Augustine’s CE Primary in Maida Vale. These specially built planters divert water from downpipes into planted beds, where soil and roots slow drainage and filter pollutants before the water returns safely to the system.

At St Gabriel’s, four planters have been placed around the Key Stage 1 courtyard, while at St Augustine’s, seven planters have been added across the playground and nursery, featuring both sunny and shaded planting schemes. Each planter has been designed to suit the building and the learning environment, with child-friendly edible plants, pollinator-friendly flowers, and integrated rain diverters that make the science visible to pupils. The project also supports green skills, giving the children opportunities to learn about sustainable design, maintenance and urban greening.

Geoff Barraclough, Maida Vale Councillor and  Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development said:

“SuDS for Schools helps Westminster’s schools prepare for heavier rainfall while improving air quality and biodiversity across the city. The result is not just better drainage, it’s healthier, greener school playgrounds and a small but vital contribution to making Westminster climate-resilient. When it comes to flooding, every little helps.”