Manhole Soakaway
Manhole soakaways are underground drainage structures designed to manage excess surface water by allowing it to naturally infiltrate into the surrounding soil. They typically consist of a vertical manhole chamber connected to perforated pipes or a gravel-filled pit, creating space for water to collect and slowly disperse. These systems help prevent flooding, reduce pressure on stormwater networks, and promote sustainable water management. Manhole soakaways are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings where effective drainage is essential. Their accessible design also makes inspection and maintenance easier, ensuring long-term performance and reliability in handling rainwater runoff.
What is a Manhole Soakaway?
Description:
A vertical concrete or plastic chamber (similar to a manhole) with perforated sides or base that allows water to drain into the surrounding ground. Often used where space for a large pit is limited.
How it works:
Rainwater flows into the chamber and infiltrates through the perforations into the soil.
At UK Drainage Design, we specialise in the design of manhole soakaways, providing tailored solutions to effectively manage surface water on residential, commercial, and industrial sites. Our team carefully assesses site conditions, rainfall patterns, and soil permeability to create efficient, compliant designs that prevent flooding and reduce pressure on existing drainage systems. Using manhole soakaways, we can maximise storage capacity while providing a solution where light weight systems are not appropriate. From concept through to construction guidance, we ensure our designs are practical, sustainable, and meet all regulatory requirements, giving our clients peace of mind and long-term performance.
Advantages/Limitations
Advantages:
- Compact and space-efficient.
- Easy to access for maintenance.
- Strong and durable (especially concrete versions).
Best for:
- Urban or restricted sites, or as part of a larger SuDS system.
Limitations:
- Smaller storage capacity.
- Requires careful design to ensure infiltration doesn’t undermine foundations.