Planning approval for the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme is granted, inclusive of new wildflower meadows and wetland and subject to requirements.

The much-anticipated scheme, which is now one step closer to becoming a reality following approval from the Oxfordshire County Council, aims to reduce the risk of flooding incurred from the River Thames, protecting the city’s homes, businesses and public realms.

Led by the Environment Agency in partnership with nine other organisations, the scheme will work with the city’s natural floodplain to the west to create a new 5km stream, fed by the River Thames.

When the Thames is high, water flowing from the river into the stream will naturally start to fill the lowered floodplain, instead of overspilling into build-up areas of the city.

Plans for the new stream also include the creation of over 20 hectares of new wetland habitat and around 16 hectares of floodplain meadow. It will be maintained largely through traditional land management methods such as grazing.

Accessibility to the stream will also allow for the city’s population to walk and cycle alongside it, connecting with nature and observing wildlife.

Robbie Williams, project director of the scheme, comments:

“We have consulted widely to design what we believe to be the best scheme for Oxford, which will bring both greater protection from flooding and other amenity and environmental benefits to the community.”

Councillor Pete Sudbury, deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council with responsibility for climate change, environment and future generations, and chair of the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme Sponsoring Group, adds:

“The scheme will provide Oxford with vital protection from flooding and help the city to become more resilient to the effects of climate change.”

The Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme is one of the biggest flood schemes currently planned in England, its approval is subject to the application first being referred to the secretary of state for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, due to the scheme’s location in the green belt.