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Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme

Enabling infrastructure

Funding secured from both central government and local partners. 

£41m approved by local partners

The project

One of the biggest flood schemes currently planned in England. Working with the natural floodplain to the west of Oxford, the scheme will create a new stream and lowered flood plain, increasing capacity for when water levels are high. Further details available at Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme page.

The opportunity

Reduced flood risk to all properties in Oxford currently at risk of flooding from the River Thames, keeping Oxford open for business and the economy thriving. People will be able to enjoy walking and cycling alongside the new stream, and looking out for wildlife in the wetland and meadows.

Progress

The Environment Agency are progressing plans with DEFRA for the majority of the scheme cost to be funded by central government. It has already secured £41m support from local partners and Oxford City Council is contributing land in-kind. The planning application for the scheme has been approved at Planning Committee by Oxfordshire County Council, subject to a legal agreement between the council and the Environment Agency. The Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the land needed for the scheme was approved in May 2025. Construction is expected to start in late 2026.

Other projects

Oxford station (western side)

Oxford Station – western side

A new track, platform, ticket hall and wider bridge over Botley Road.

… Learn more about Oxford Station – western side
a train pulling into Oxford Station behind the car park

Oxford Station – eastern side

A new track and platform, main station building, bus interchange and walking and cycling provision, and an enhanced public realm.

… Learn more about Oxford Station – eastern side
A replacement wider bridge over the Bulstake Stream on Willow Walk

Osney Mead and Thames active travel

A number of different schemes that enhance the usability and attractiveness of quiet active travel (pedestrian and cycle) routes in the… Learn more about Osney Mead and Thames active travel

a cyclist in the city

Botley Road bus and cycle enhancements

Highway improvements that aim to reduce bus journey times and provide a safer and more attractive route for cyclists and… Learn more about Botley Road bus and cycle enhancements

Train pulling out of station

Cowley Branch Line

Reopening of passenger services on the branch line, with two new stations to Oxford Littlemore and Oxford Cowley, 7 and… Learn more about Cowley Branch Line

The 'mini TESA' launchJohn Cairns via Oxford University

The Energy Systems Accelerator (TESA)

A new multi-disciplinary hub, the first of its kind in the UK, where organisations can come together to innovate in… Learn more about The Energy Systems Accelerator (TESA)

Burying or diverting power lines

Osney Mead is crossed by two power lines that could be buried or diverted.

… Learn more about Burying or diverting power lines
River Thames Bridge and path works CGI

Oxpens River Bridge and path works

This new bridge is proposed between Oxpens and Grandpont Nature Park. It is designed as a shared space for both… Learn more about Oxpens River Bridge and path works

two people enjoying Broad Meadow experimental public space

Movement and Place Interventions

The Central Oxfordshire Travel Plan identified a need for a Movement and Place Framework. This study will integrate all planned… Learn more about Movement and Place Interventions

a bus and pedestrians in Oxford

Traffic Filters Trial

Camera enforced points on identified roads that will require private vehicles passing through to have a permit.

The scheme aims to… Learn more about Traffic Filters Trial

A bus moving through a city. Greener ways to travel.

Zero Emission Zone

Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council have introduced a Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in Oxford to improve air quality,… Learn more about Zero Emission Zone

Workplace Parking Levy

An annual charge to employers for staff workplace parking places they provide

… Learn more about Workplace Parking Levy

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Movement and Place Interventionstwo people enjoying Broad Meadow experimental public spaceRiver Thames Bridge and path works CGIOxpens River Bridge and path works