A new £300,000 grant scheme has been launched to help develop sustainable drainage solutions across Wales, with applications now open.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is inviting organisations to come forward with proposals for small-scale projects which could help reduce flooding, improve water quality and ease pressure on the sewer network.

The funding will support detailed design studies for retrofitting sustainable drainage systems, known as SuDS, into existing sites.

These systems use natural methods to manage rainwater rather than allowing it to flow directly into drains and sewers. They can include permeable paving, rain gardens, soakaways and the creation of wetlands.

NRW says the approach can help reduce surface water flooding in built-up areas, limit run-off into rivers and streams and improve local water quality.

It could also help reduce the amount of rainwater entering overloaded sewer networks, where heavy rainfall can contribute to storm overflows releasing diluted sewage into rivers and coastal waters.

Individual projects receiving support in this funding round are expected to be worth between £30,000 and £60,000.

Applicants will need to demonstrate how their proposals could improve existing approaches, reduce carbon emissions, support biodiversity and deliver health and wellbeing benefits for local communities.

Jill Howells, NRW's Lead Specialist Advisor for the Water Capital Programme, said increasingly intense rainfall was placing pressure on drainage systems which were not designed to cope with heavier downpours.

She said sustainable drainage could help address the combined challenges of climate change, population growth and ageing sewerage infrastructure.

As well as reducing flooding and improving water quality, she said the schemes could help tackle urban heat, create habitats for wildlife and improve public spaces.

The programme is being funded by the Welsh Government, with applications needing to be submitted by midnight on January 31, 2027.

NRW also plans to hold two online information sessions where potential applicants can find out more about the scheme and ask questions about the application process.

Further details, including how to apply and register interest in the webinars, are available through the Natural Resources Wales website at naturalresources.wales/about-us/grants-and-funding.