I WRITE with regard to the new revised flood risk maps issued by the Environment Ministry for Witney which they say are down to “better computer technology” (Oxford Mail, February 8).

I have to say that it’s very hard to understand how changes in computer technology could outweigh the experiences of one resident who stated that he has lived in the area for 72 years and has never known the area around Moorland Road to flood.

Clearly any changes to the estimation of areas at risk are down to human activity, and my guess is it’s due to the development of the Marriots Walk Shopping Centre, which is itself at risk according to the new assessment.

When this shopping centre was built, Witney lost a number of green fields, the football ground and drainage ditches – which would have acted as sumps for excess water.

So the big question is, why did West Oxfordshire District Council’s planning department approve this development in Witney’s flood plain?

According to one insurance company I contacted, the re-assessment would only result in a four per cent increase in house insurance fees – until there is a claim made for flooding.

Also, what about the effect on house prices in the area when the first flooding occurs?

I think the planners have some explaining to do. Compensation could be an issue.

R Lee, Burford Road, Witney