The Marylebone Flyover Rain Gardens have received national recognition after winning the Urban Retrofit (Small) category at the susdrain SuDS Awards 2026.
The award-winning sustainable drainage (SuDS) project was recognised for transforming an underused space beneath the Marylebone Flyover into an innovative piece of green infrastructure that helps reduce flood risk, improve biodiversity and bring nature into the heart of central London.
Created by Transport for London (TfL) and delivered in partnership with Marble Arch BID, the Greater London Authority (GLA), Thames Water and the Tarmac Kier Joint Venture, the project demonstrates how sustainable drainage solutions can be integrated into existing urban infrastructure.
The Marylebone Flyover Rain Gardens are the largest sustainable drainage system (SuDS) scheme in central London, improving surface water management and helping London adapt to climate change and increased flood risk. The gardens capture rainwater run-off from an area of approximately 3,500m² and feature 11 new trees, more than 1,100 shrubs and plants, and 2,300 bulbs, creating valuable new habitat and enhancing biodiversity in the area.
The annual susdrain SuDS Awards celebrate excellence in sustainable drainage systems and nature-based solutions across the UK. This year’s awards attracted a record number of entries, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable drainage in creating greener, more climate-resilient places.
The judges praised the project’s innovation and creativity, highlighting how existing infrastructure can be repurposed to deliver flood reduction benefits while creating new pockets of nature and green space in a dense urban environment.
The scheme was part-funded by Thames Water and the Greater London Authority (GLA) through the Green Infrastructure Fund programme. Marble Arch BID has committed to supporting the long-term success of the rain gardens by funding and managing ongoing maintenance, ensuring they continue to deliver environmental and public realm benefits for years to come.
