£176m – delivery by 2030
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.
https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/thames/oxfordscheme/
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.
The Environment Agency are progressing plans with DEFRA towards the £176m total. It has garnered £41m support from local partners and Oxford City Council is contributing land in-kind. The planning application has been submitted and the Environment Agency has made a compulsory purchase order (CPO) to acquire the land, and rights in land, needed to build the scheme. A public inquiry is being held to consider the CPO which began on 14 November 2023. You can view the inquiry programme at https://www.hwa.uk.com/projects/oxford-flood-alleviation-scheme-cpo-inquiry/