Oxford flood prevention measures out for consultation

10.37.09pm GMT Tue 10th Mar 2009

Flooding on Port Meadow, West Oxford

The Environment Agency has published an Oxford Flood Risk Management Strategy and invited comments and suggestions from residents and businesses in Oxford by 12 May 2009. Said Lib Dem councillor Alan Armitage: "I believe the Environment Agency is serious about working out the best way to protect the parts of West Oxford which have flooded so often in recent years. I would urge residents to give them positive feedback and to tell them clearly what they feel about the options."

Oxford has experienced three major floods this century already, in 2000, 2003 and 2007. Action is needed to prepare for the arrival of climate change and increased rainfall. Too much of West and South Oxford has been built on or close to the historic Thames flood meadows, which once protected people from the effects of high river levels. The balance now needs to be restored.

The Environment Agency is looking for ways to reduce the risk to as many as possible of the 3600 homes which are at risk from a "one in one hundred" year flood. They also want to minimise disruption to the railway and main roads, and to protect the wildlife and environment which enrich the city.

The Environment Agency report can be read at the website below, and comments sent on-line, or a copy of the booklet and reply form ordered. An exhibition in Oxford Town Hall on Saturday 28th March between 10 am and 4.30 pm is an opportunity to interrogate the experts.

www.environment-agency.gov.uk/oxfordflood