Council begins new flood study

The study was prompted by recent floods and local concern over the impact new development could have.

Old Marston Parish Council chair Charlie Haynes said: “I am certainly glad the council is carrying out this study. I think it is a question of the water not draining away properly.”

Last year the city council asked residents to help them map out where the area flooded.

The results, which are available on the city council’s website, show extensive flooding around Westlands Drive, Dents Close and Stockleys Road.

Now a second consultation has been launched.

Local city councillor Mary Clarkson said: “I get complaints from all over Marston from people whose gardens have become waterlogged and this has been an issue for nearly 10 years.

“I would urge residents to put forward their views.”

City council officers are hoping to find out the potential sources, extent and depth of the flooding as well as the risks for the community.

Councillor Colin Cook, cabinet member for city development, said: “A lot of residents will remember the flash flooding in 2005 which created a 4ft-deep river in Stockleys Road, and there have been further incidents in the area.

“This study helps officers assess the impact and risk of flooding in Northway and Marston and it is important that residents understand the work that we are doing.”

The Environment Agency said it was advising the city council and would comment on the study after its completion.

Information on the study can be seen at oxford.gov.uk/northwayfloodstudy and comments can be sent to Steve Smith at swsmith@oxford.gov.uk.

A public exhibition and consultation event is being held on Monday, March 19 from 12pm to 9.30pm in the Northway Community Centre, in Dora Carr Close.

Residents will be able to meet with representatives from the project team to raise any concerns and discuss the project in more detail.

The consultation is open until Monday, March 26.