SuDS & BNG Planters donated to help secure planning approval for Cherry Tree Youth Hub
SuDS & BNG Planters donated to help secure planning approval for Cherry Tree Youth Hub
Project overview
- Products donated: 2 High Attenuation SuDS planters with wildlife habitats, specialist fill materials including SuDS soil, deadwood material, reservoir clay
- Attenuation capacity: 700 litres
- Outflow per second: <0.1L
The Cherry Tree Youth Hub in Beverley, East Yorkshire, was created to provide a safe, stable and inspiring environment for young people. Prior to the project, the Hub operated from makeshift spaces such as gazebos and car boots, limiting its ability to deliver meaningful support. The opportunity to build a permanent centre arose through the BBC’s DIY SOS Big Build initiative, which rallied volunteers, partners and local businesses to transform the site in record time.
The challenge
While the ambition and community drive were strong, the project faced a critical hurdle: gaining planning approval. The planning authority required that biodiversity and sustainability criteria be met for the development to proceed. Without a clear solution to manage rainwater runoff and deliver biodiversity net gain (BNG), approval was in doubt.
The solution
B;uWater Solutions’ parent company, BioScapes Group stepped in with a practical yet innovative solution – donating two of its high-attenuation SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) and BNG planters. Delivered at just 24 hours’ notice, the planters came complete with specialist SuDS soil and deadwood habitat material, supplied in collaboration with installation specialists Rescue2.
These multifunctional planters:
- Captured and attenuated rainwater runoff from the new centre’s green roof.
- Delivered measurable biodiversity enhancements through integrated bug hotels, bee habitats, and planting spaces.
- Created opportunities for the youth hub to engage young people with hands-on environmental learning by planting herbs, tomatoes, and flowers directly in the units.
When unforeseen installation challenges arose, the BioScapes Group team quickly adapted fittings and provided on-site support, ensuring the system was fully functional from day one.
BluWater Solutions’ sister company, Rolawn, also supported the project by supplying its premium Medallion® Turf , ensuring the site was ready for the “big reveal” to the community. Together, these contributions helped deliver a youth facility that not only met planning regulations but also embodied a sustainable, future-focused vision.
“Without these additions it was touch and go whether we would get the planning over the line, as we had to meet biodiversity requirements and sustainability for nature in the area. The planters have been a fantastic addition to the youth centre.”
Why this matters
By addressing the planning authority’s environmental requirements, the planters helped secure approval for the project. Beyond compliance, they continue to deliver long-term value by managing stormwater sustainably, supporting urban biodiversity, and serving as a learning resource for the youth hub.
Outcome
This case demonstrates how innovative water management and biodiversity solutions can make the difference between approval and rejection in planning applications. The SuDS and BNG planters provided a straightforward, practical means of meeting environmental requirements while creating lasting benefits for the community.
The Cherry Tree Youth Hub now stands as a vibrant space for young people – one made possible not only through teamwork and generosity but also through the integration of green infrastructure that secured the project’s planning approval.
