The international network of Centres for Urban Water (CUW) and for Urban Drainage (IRTCUD) has been created to foster advanced research development in Urban Water Management (UWM) and to provide support and top level services including training and technology dissemination to the international academic and professional community. 

This aim is achieved by relying on joining forces and sharing expertise and  resources available in cooperating partners' institutions.  This is also strengthened by cross fertilisation of the  advanced knowledge and technology in integrated urban water management and by providing space to the non members to join in to co-operate and benefit.