The pavement that soaks up puddles

It could become the unlikely solution to London's flood problem.

Experts have revealed a new type of pavement that acts like a sponge, soaking up water.

They say it could put an end to flash floods caused by the capital's ancient sewerage system being unable to drain heavy rainfall at a fast enough rate.

The new pavements can help clean water before releasing it and could be rolled out across London.

"What we can do is actually hold water in the pavement, and either release it slowly into drains below, or even siphon it off into storage tanks," said Clive Freeman of Tarmac, which has spent six years developing the paving.

The company is in talks with several London boroughs about replacing their old pavements and has had discussions with the Government about using the system in the Thames Gateway development.

"If the pavement can soak up the excess water, there is no need for other drainage systems," Mr Freeman said. The firm hopes it could also help protect London from the results of global warming.

"With wetter and milder winters and drier summers, the system deals with global warming in that it prevents flash flooding, but also conserves drinking water."