Leaking Water Feature? Why a Rain Garden Could Be a Better Solution

When a water feature starts leaking, the obvious solution is often to repair it.

However, during a recent site visit to Grocott & Murfit HQ, ABBCO identified an opportunity to take a different approach. Rather than recommending expensive repairs to a failing water feature, we developed a proposal that would transform the space into a wildlife-friendly rain garden and sustainable drainage feature.

As specialists in ecological landscaping, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable garden design, we are increasingly helping clients create landscapes that work with nature rather than against it.

The Problem With Traditional Water Feature Repairs

Over time, pond liners fail, pumps break down and water features become increasingly expensive to maintain.

In this instance, the existing feature could no longer retain water effectively. Whilst repairs were possible, they would have required significant investment without addressing wider opportunities within the landscape.

Instead of seeing the leakage as a defect, we recognised that the feature was already performing one of the key functions required for a rain garden: allowing water to infiltrate naturally into the ground.

What Is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a planted landscape feature designed to collect, slow and absorb rainwater runoff from roofs, paving and surrounding hard surfaces.

As part of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), rain gardens help reduce surface water runoff, improve drainage performance and support biodiversity within the landscape. The RHS notes that rain gardens can absorb significantly more water than traditional lawn areas whilst also attracting birds, insects and pollinators.

Rain gardens are increasingly being incorporated into both commercial landscapes and private gardens as property owners look for environmentally responsible drainage solutions.

Our Proposed Solution

Rather than rebuilding the water feature, ABBCO proposed converting the existing basin into a stormwater attenuation rain garden.

Rainwater from the adjacent downpipe would be directed into the feature where it could temporarily collect during periods of heavy rainfall before gradually infiltrating into the surrounding ground.

During dry periods, the area would remain an attractive naturalistic planting scheme, providing colour, texture and seasonal interest throughout the year.

The proposal also allows existing stonework and cobbles to be retained and reused, reducing waste whilst preserving the character of the original feature.

Benefits of a Wildlife-Friendly Rain Garden

Sustainable Garden Drainage

Rain gardens help manage excess rainfall naturally, reducing pressure on drainage systems and helping to mitigate surface water flooding.

Increased Biodiversity

A well-designed rain garden creates habitat for pollinators, birds, amphibians and beneficial insects, making it an excellent addition to a wildlife garden.

Lower Maintenance

Unlike traditional ponds and ornamental water features, rain gardens do not require pumps, filtration systems or constant water management.

Climate Resilience

By accommodating both heavy rainfall and prolonged dry periods, rain gardens provide a practical landscape solution for changing weather patterns.

Naturalistic Garden Design

Rain gardens combine practical drainage functions with attractive planting, creating spaces that feel more natural, diverse and connected to the surrounding environment.

Proposed Planting Palette

To ensure year-round interest and resilience, the proposed planting scheme includes species capable of thriving in both temporary flooding and drought conditions.

• Iris pseudacorus (Yellow Flag Iris)

• Carex spp. (Sedge)

• Juncus spp. (Rush)

• Deschampsia cespitosa (Tufted Hair Grass)

• Lythrum salicaria (Purple Loosestrife)

• Persicaria amphibia (Amphibious Bistort)

• Euphorbia palustris (Marsh Spurge)

• Miscanthus sinensis (Chinese Silver Grass)

Together these species provide habitat value, seasonal colour, structural interest and excellent tolerance of fluctuating moisture levels.

Sustainable Landscaping That Works With Nature

This proposal demonstrates how ecological landscaping can often provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional repair works.

By transforming a leaking water feature into a rain garden, the space has the potential to improve drainage, enhance biodiversity, support local wildlife and create a more resilient landscape for the future.

If you're considering a wildlife pond, rain garden, sustainable drainage solution or biodiversity-led landscape project, ABBCO can help develop a design that works with your site, your budget and the natural environment.