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Ever wondered what wetlands actually are? πŸ’§πŸ€”

They're nature's in-between spaces, where land meets water. From streams and ponds to marshes, wetlands act like giant natural sponges, soaking up excess rainwater and slowing it down before it can cause flooding.

Did ...you know Slough has its very own wetland? The Salt Hill Stream, running through through the centre of Slough's many park such as Salt Hill Park, Baylis Park and Godolphin Recreation Ground! 🌿These areas provide valuable habitats for wildlife while helping to manage water naturally.

Wetlands do far more than support nature. They can also play an important role in reducing flood risk, improving water quality and creating healthier, greener spaces for everyone to enjoy. πŸŒ§οΈπŸ’š

Project Sponge is working in partnership with WWT The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council Buckinghamshire Council WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

πŸ“’ Recently, we met with Slough MP Tan Dhesi to discuss flooding in Slough and the work being done through Project Sponge.

We shared some of the challenges that flooding can bring to local communities, as well as the progress being made to help manage surface water in a more sustainable ...way.

From installing rain gardens and SuDS planters to working with schools and local residents, Project Sponge is helping to create greener spaces that can capture rainfall, support wildlife and build resilience to future flooding. πŸŒΏπŸ’§

It was a great opportunity to showcase the positive impact of nature-based solutions and discuss how projects like these can benefit communities across Slough.

In partnership with WWT The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council Buckinghamshire Council

Think all flooding is the same? πŸ€”πŸ’§ Think again.
From surface water flooding after a downpour to rivers bursting their banks, there are several types of flooding, and each happens for different reasons.
Understanding the different types of flooding can help us be better prepared and ...more aware of the risks in our local area.
Swipe through to learn more about the different types of flooding and what causes them ➑️

πŸ“ Check if your area is at risk of flooding: gov.uk/check-flood-risk

In partnership with WWT London Wetland Centre The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council Buckinghamshire Council

πŸŒΏπŸ’§ New SuDS Planter at Weekes Drive! πŸ’§πŸŒΏ

We’ve recently installed four new SuDS planters at Weekes Drive as part of Project Sponge.
These specially designed rain gardens capture rainwater from roofs and allow it to drain naturally, helping to reduce pressure on drains and ...sewers during heavy rainfall. They’re a simple but effective way of managing surface water while creating greener neighbourhoods.
Planted with a variety of species, from striking Jack Frost (Brunnera) to colourful Echinaceas, these planters provide benefits for both people and nature. 🌸🐝

And there’s more…they double up as seating, offering a place to stop, relax and enjoy the surrounding greenery! Made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials, they’re a sustainable addition to the local area in more ways than one.

Have you spotted them yet? Let us know what you think! πŸ‘‡

Installed by Suds Planter Ltd

In partnership with WWT
The National Flood Forum , Slough Borough Council , Buckinghamshire Council Heritage & Archaeology , WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

#ProjectSponge #SuDS #RainGardens #NatureBasedSolutions #slough 🌱

🌍 It’s Plastic Free July!

Plastic doesn’t just disappear once it’s thrown away. It can harm wildlife, end up in our rivers and oceans, and even block drains - increasing the risk of flooding when heavy rain hits.

The good news? Reducing plastic doesn’t mean changing ...everything overnight. A few simple swaps in your daily routine can make a real difference, whether it’s carrying a reusable bottle, switching to a soap bar, or remembering your shopping bags (even for quick trips).
It’s the small things that add up πŸ’š

Which swap will you try first? Let us know in the comments! ♻️

In partnership with WWT , The National Flood Forum , Slough Borough Council , Buckinghamshire Council

We recently visited a local primary school (more to be revealed soon!) to work with their brilliant Eco Warriors group. 🌱

Together we dived into the journey of ‘Ravi the Raindrop,’ learning how water flows through our urban spaces and how we can help manage it more sustainably. We ...explored what a healthier water journey looks like, along with simple nature-based solutions that capture rainwater and help reduce the risk of flooding, all in a fun and interactive way.πŸ’§

The group even had a go at drawing up ideas and designs for rain planters at their school. πŸ‘€ We’re look forward to returning for a follow-up session soon!

In partnership with WWT London Wetland Centre The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council Buckinghamshire Council WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Huge shoutout to the incredible team of volunteers from Orange Mobile! 🧑 Last Week, they rolled up their sleeves at Salt Hill Park and got stuck in - literally! Despite the very soggy conditions, they cleared our stream and made a real difference for the park and our local community. ...πŸ’ͺ🌊
This is exactly what tackling flooding in Slough looks like: hands - on action, community spirit, and teamwork that flows.
Thank you for helping us protect our green spaces and build a more flood-resilient future. 🌿
Project Sponge is proud to work in partnership with WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre , The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council, Buckinghamshire Council , WWT London Wetland Centre

Last month, we shared the installation of 12 SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) planters at:

πŸ“ Cippenham Community Centre
πŸ“ Chalvey Working Men’s Club

Now they’re starting to come to life.

The planters have been filled with a variety of plants that will ...help create greener community spaces while supporting the important job these SuDS features do — slowing down and managing rainwater during heavy rainfall.

What began as a row of empty planters is already becoming something much more colourful, helping to create spaces that benefit both people and nature.

A huge thank you to everyone involved in helping bring this project to life, and to GreenBlue Urban for supplying the planters and plants. πŸ’š

We can’t wait to watch these spaces grow over the coming months.

In partnership with WWT London Wetland Centre The National Flood Forum Slough Borough Council Buckinghamshire Council WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre