Suggestions on configuring downspouts

[parakeet]

The front of my house has two water downpipes. One goes right in to the ground, underground and through the front forecourt wall, exiting on to the pavement. The other pours right out on to the ground. See pics...

I am considering new options for the top-exiting pipe for two reasons...

1. I am wondering whether water exiting so near the base of the wall here is a bad idea. Anyone got a view on this? Several walls are suffering from damp and I want to do what I can to eliminate that any risk of that in this area.

2. I want to plant a row of privacy hedging, perhaps cherry laurel, where you see the row of patio slabs. As is, that water would be pouring right on to the hedging. Maybe this risks over-watering or simply sludgy soil? But I like the idea of using the appropriate amount of natural water for the hedge if necessary.

Any thoughts on what, if anything, could or should be done?
Any thoughts about planting hedging here?

Could the top-exiting pipe be directed in to the underground pipe at the visible portion? I seem to recall a rule against doing this, regarding volume of water exiting to the pavement (?).

Thanks.

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

Common both pipes into one, I doubt it'll raise any issues. Should garden become waterlogged then excess water will run onto pavement anyway, possibly taking mud with it.

If you really wanted to use rainwater to water the garden, simply provide a Water Butt and use a diverter kit on one of the downpipes. Out of curiosity, where do the 2 pipes takes water from anyway?