SDS protects Scotland’s largest build-to-rent mixed-use development from the risk of flooding.

Overview
Central Quay, Glasgow, is one of Scotland’s largest build-to-rent mixed-use developments. The 4.4-acre riverside site in the Anderston district, formerly home to the Harland & Wolffe Finnieston Diesel Engine Works, had remained derelict for over 50 years. The redevelopment transforms this long-neglected brownfield site into a vibrant urban neighbourhood, delivering 409 residential apartments, 934 student beds, commercial spaces, public realm, roof gardens, and a central plaza, while supporting Glasgow’s wider regeneration objectives.

The site’s location adjacent to the River Clyde, combined with extensive impermeable surfaces, presented significant surface water management challenges. Heavy rainfall risked rapid runoff, increasing flood potential and placing pressure on downstream infrastructure. A robust, low-maintenance system was required to manage both water quality and peak flows, protecting the river and new development.

What They Did
SDS supplied a comprehensive solution combining treatment and attenuation. Two Aqua-Swirl® hydrodynamic separators of different capacities were installed to intercept runoff from roofs, access roads and hard landscaping, removing sediment, oils, hydrocarbons and other pollutants before discharge. The larger unit serves the main hard-surfaced areas, while the smaller unit provides targeted treatment for secondary catchments.

To manage peak flows, a GEOlight® attenuation tank was installed, providing 283 m³ of storage. The system regulates stormwater discharge into the River Clyde at agreed rates, using prefabricated Weholite flow control chambers providing easy inspection and low maintenance. SDS worked closely with the project team to ensure the system fit within the dense city-centre site and aligned with sustainable urban drainage principles. Installation was completed in Autumn 2025, in keeping with construction timelines.

Results
The SDS Aqua-Swirl® units and GEOlight® attenuation tank now ensure surface water from Central Quay is treated to a high standard and discharged in a controlled manner. This protects the River Clyde from pollution, reduces flood risk to new buildings, basement areas, pedestrian walkways, and car parks, and eases pressure on downstream drainage infrastructure.

By integrating water treatment and attenuation, the system supports Glasgow’s sustainability and environmental objectives while contributing to the long-term resilience of the development. Combined with energy-efficient buildings, green roofs, EV charging infrastructure, and new habitat planting, SDS’s solutions help establish Central Quay as a benchmark for sustainable mixed-use regeneration on brownfield land.

Testimonial
SDS provided a surface water management solution that supported the Unite Central Quay project. Communication with the project team was clear and well coordinated, ensuring work could progress smoothly in a busy city centre location. The system was designed to fit neatly into the available space, avoiding complications with the wider construction.

– Paul McMenamin, Contracts Manager, 4DStructures

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