Sir – We read with interest the article (February 5) about the planning application for a hydroelectric turbine at Osney Mill in Oxford.

As the Oxford Flood Alliance we have been flagging up this project to the city council for some time and suggesting that consideration be given to incorporating as much flood relief element into the scheme as possible.

We have submitted our suggestions to the planning officers dealing with this application, spoken to local councillors and made our views known to the local Flood Risk Management team of the Environment Agency. We are aware that the Low Carbon West Oxford group are planning a hydroelectric scheme on the other bank, which we understand will afford some additional relief in times of flood.

We believe that the two schemes need not conflict with each other, provided this is planned for.

We hope that all those involved will wish to maximise this rare opportunity for improvements where all parties could benefit.

The mill-owners should be applauded for their initiative for a sustainable, non-polluting power supply; the project here will be an example to others, including those who own other disused mills around the country.

Simon Collings and Peter Rawcliffe, Oxford Flood Alliance