Major roads in Kidlington have already flooded three times this year but residents have been assured work will be done

Major roads, including Lock Crescent and Springfield Road, have already flooded three times this year, with water almost reaching people's homes but council bosses have assured residents work will be carried out to prevent future blockages in the sewer system which cause the problems.

A public meeting was held at St John's Hall in High Street last week where locals where told about the plans.

Representatives from Thames Water, Oxfordshire County Council and Kidlington Parish Council were there to answer questions from residents.

Oxfordshire County Council drainage engineer Gordon Hunt said the council were investigating which organisation is responsible for the maintenance of outfall ditches in the Garden City, where surface water sewers discharge to but has guaranteed either the council or Thames Water will complete the work.

He added: "We are aware of the issues and will have a new scheme constructed by the end of September 2016. Due to Springfield Road being low-lying we can only lay small pipes at flat gradients, which with regular maintenance will reduce flooding within the road."

Parish council chairman Maurice Billington said he was pleased at the amount of residents who came to the meeting.

He said: "We had about 40 to 50 residents turn up and we were told that work will start in the autumn."

Martyn Fawcett, who has lived in Springfield Road for about 40 years, was one of those at the meeting.

The 78-year-old said: "It was a very productive meeting and the council really put forward what they are trying to do.

"These roads are not built to have so much water thrown at them but luckily it has been shallow down this end and doesn't get into the house."

Francesca Haley, a resident on the same road, also welcomed the news.

She said: "I have lived here for 38 years and there has always been flooding on this road. About four years money was spent which was supposed to alleviate the problem but instead the water seems to travel further up the street.

"I am not sure if the work will make a difference though, but it's good that they have accepted there is an issue that needs correcting."

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood was also present.

Speaking after the meeting Miss Blackwood said: "The meeting was well attended by local residents affected by consistent flooding in the Kidlington area, and it was encouraging to hear from Thames Water and Oxfordshire County Council about plans for a sustainable solution.

"We must now keep up the pressure and ensure timing does not slip, as well as making sure residents are kept fully up to date and know how to do their bit to prevent further incidents."