Innovative, director-led drainage engineering services for developers, contractors, and the public sector. We deliver practical, efficient, and compliant strategies that support your project from concept to construction.
AJF Engineering Consultants is a leading North West based civil and structural engineering firm, offering a refreshing, client-focused service across the UK. Our team of Chartered engineers specialises in providing innovative and robust drainage design solutions. We combine extensive experience in both design and construction to deliver schemes that are not only compliant with the latest standards but are also practical, cost-effective, and straightforward to build and maintain.
We understand that a successful development hinges on a solid foundation, and effective drainage is a critical component of that foundation. From initial feasibility studies and planning applications to detailed design and construction support, our in-house experts manage every aspect of your project’s drainage requirements. This integrated approach guarantees quality control, programme efficiency, and seamless coordination with all stakeholders.
Learn more about our team of chartered engineers and the values that drive our work.
Get in touch with us today by calling 0151 374 0545 or emailing us at info@ajfengineering.co.uk to discuss a project.
Our Comprehensive Drainage Design Services
At AJF Engineering, we provide a full spectrum of drainage design services tailored to residential, commercial, mixed-use, and public sector developments. By keeping all design work in-house, including advanced drainage modelling, we ensure our solutions are robust, value-driven, and perfectly aligned with your project goals.
Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS)
Effective surface water management is essential for modern developments. Our team designs bespoke Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) that meet stringent planning requirements while respecting site-specific constraints. We focus on mimicking natural drainage processes to reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and enhance biodiversity. Our SuDS solutions are designed for long term performance and simple maintenance. For more on this topic, see our blog: The Benefits of SUDS for Flood Risk Management.
SuDS Approval Body (SAB) Applications in Wales
For developments in Wales, approval from the SuDS Approval Body (SAB) is a statutory requirement. We prepare and manage full SAB applications, including compliant SuDS layouts, calculations, construction details, maintenance plans, and adoption information in line with Welsh legislation and statutory guidance. Our team liaises directly with the SAB and local authority to address technical comments efficiently, helping to secure approval without delay and ensuring the proposed SuDS are practical, adoptable, and deliver long-term performance.
Adoptable Drainage Design (S104)
Navigating the complexities of Section 104 agreements for the adoption of new sewers by water authorities requires specialist expertise. We have extensive experience in designing adoptable drainage systems that comply with the requirements of Sewers for Adoption and the specific standards of individual water companies. Our meticulous approach ensures a smooth technical approval process, preventing costly delays.
Sewer Connections (S106)
Securing a connection to the public sewer network is a critical step for any project. Our engineers manage the entire Section 106 application process, from initial liaison with the water authority to the design of the connection and final approval. We ensure all technical details are addressed, facilitating a timely and compliant connection.
Sewer Diversions (S185)
When a proposed development conflicts with existing public sewers, a Section 185 diversion is often necessary. We handle the complex process of designing and negotiating sewer diversions, ensuring minimal disruption and full compliance with the water authority’s requirements. Our practical solutions protect both the existing infrastructure and the integrity of your development.
Drainage Strategies for Planning Applications
A robust Drainage Strategy is now a core requirement for most planning applications. We prepare comprehensive strategies that clearly outline how surface water and foul water will be managed. These documents provide planning authorities with the confidence that your development is viable, sustainable, and poses no increased flood risk, helping to streamline the validation and approval process. To learn more about preparing for planning, visit our guide: How to Prepare a Drainage Strategy for Planning Approval.
Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs)
Our Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs) are crucial for developments located in flood-prone areas or those over one hectare in size. We conduct detailed assessments in line with national and local planning policies, identifying potential flood risks and proposing effective mitigation measures. Our FRAs provide the evidence needed to satisfy the Environment Agency, Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFAs), and planners. For insights into flood risk, we recommend: Climate Change and Its Impact on Flood Risk Assessments.
Discharge Consents
Managing the discharge of trade effluent or treated wastewater requires consent from the relevant authorities. Our team liaises directly with water authorities and LLFAs to secure the necessary discharge consents for your project. We ensure that all environmental and regulatory obligations are met efficiently.
Build-Over Agreements and Bespoke Solutions
Building near or over a public sewer presents unique challenges. We specialise in negotiating build-over agreements, providing detailed structural calculations and designs to demonstrate that the proposed work will not compromise the integrity of the sewer. For constrained or complex brownfield sites, we develop bespoke drainage solutions that unlock development potential while satisfying all regulatory bodies.
Get in touch with us today by calling 0151 374 0545 or emailing us at info@ajfengineering.co.uk to see how we can help.
Our Approach: Quality, Efficiency, and Client Focus
Our reputation is built on a foundation of technical excellence and unwavering commitment to our clients. We take a practical, director-led approach to every project, ensuring you receive the highest standard of service and expertise.
Director-Led Service: Each project benefits from direct involvement from our company directors. This ensures accountability, clear communication, and decision making that is always aligned with your commercial and technical objectives.
In-House Expertise: By conducting all drainage modelling and design work in-house with the latest software, we maintain full control over quality and timelines. Our integrated team of civil, structural, and drainage engineers collaborates closely, resulting in fully coordinated designs that reduce risk during construction.
Value Engineering: We focus on delivering solutions that provide genuine value. Our designs are not just compliant; they are optimised for constructability, ease of maintenance, and long term performance. We identify opportunities to reduce costs and enhance project outcomes without compromising quality.
Clear Coordination: We have extensive experience working on projects delivered through established frameworks, where clear coordination is paramount. We excel at working alongside developers, contractors, architects, and public sector bodies to ensure a smooth and efficient project delivery.
To find out more about the people behind our projects, visit our team page or contact us today.
Proven Expertise in Drainage Projects
Our portfolio demonstrates our capability to deliver effective drainage solutions across a diverse range of sectors and project scales. You can view more of our work on our Projects page.
- Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool: AJF Engineering was pivotal in helping a 24-apartment development adjacent to the world-famous racecourse gain full Planning Permission. We prepared a comprehensive Drainage Strategy and FRA that satisfied all regulatory requirements.
- The Retreat, York: For the sensitive transformation of this landmark 18th-century estate, we provided a full suite of civil, structural, and drainage engineering services, designing systems that respected the site’s heritage while meeting modern standards.
- John Morley, Congleton: This project involved a new 71-bed care home and 14 residential dwellings. We delivered comprehensive drainage engineering services, ensuring the site’s infrastructure could support the new community effectively.
- Greenleas, Wirral: AJF provided drainage, highways, civil, and structural engineering for a scheme of 17 new homes for a Registered Provider, delivering a fully integrated design package.
For more industry insight, practical advice, and updates on the latest engineering projects, visit our regularly updated AJF Engineering Blog.
Chartered Professionals You Can Trust
Our credibility is underpinned by our professional chartership and industry certifications. AJF Engineering Consultants is led by Chartered Civil and Structural Engineers, ensuring every project is managed with the highest degree of professionalism and technical rigour. Our memberships with the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) signify our commitment to excellence and continuous professional development.
Partner with AJF Engineering for Your Next Project
If you are planning a development, a robust and compliant drainage system is non-negotiable. Partner with a team of chartered experts who can guide you through every stage of the process, from planning to construction. Our practical, value-driven approach will help de-risk your project and ensure a successful outcome.
Take the next step towards a seamless and successful development. Get in touch with us today by calling 0151 374 0545 or emailing us at info@ajfengineering.co.uk. You can also reach us directly via our contact page to see how we can help.