Oxford: Millions of litres pumped to tackle floods

More than four million litres of water were pumped every 24 hours in an area of Oxford hit by recent flooding, the city council has said.

River levels began rising across Oxfordshire in the wake of Storm Henk and further heavy rain last week.

Businesses and residents said flooding was still causing problems.

Oxford City Council said it was "working tirelessly" with its partner agencies to clear the water.

It said Oxford Direct Services (ODS) had installed about 106m of flood protection at Bullstake Close and was pumping water to protect properties and to keep the Botley Road open.

"Over four million (4,320,000) litres of water have been pumped every 24-hour period at Bullstake Close alone," the authority said in a statement.

"Over 4,000 sandbags have been distributed to vulnerable people and households at risk of flooding.

"In addition, around 4,000 sandbags and 40 tonnes of sand (equivalent to 90 grand pianos) have been made available at Redbridge Park and Ride's self-serve sandbag station."

It comes after businesses and residents in the city complained of being "cut off" because of the floods.

Abingdon Road - a main route into the city - has partially reopened four days after being shut.

And some homes in the area suffered from a loss of electricity and water, as well as sewage problems.

In its statement, the city council continued: "With water levels starting to recede, the next stage is recovery, and the council will be continuing to work closely with partners to ensure both effective mopping up of the detritus left from flooding, as will be considering any further lessons on Oxford's response to the flooding.

"The council is also in discussion with government and liaising with the neighbouring local authorities to see if the government's flooding financial assistance scheme may be applied in Oxfordshire."

Councillor Nigel Chapman, cabinet member for citizen focused services and council companies at Oxford City Council, added: "I want to offer my thanks and gratitude to everyone who has worked to address the flooding in Oxford over the past few days and has helped to keep people, homes, and businesses safe.

"However, Oxford City Council is committed to tackling flooding as it happens, and the strongest measure is prevention through flood alleviation schemes such as the Northway and Marston scheme, and the proposed Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme.

"Flood events like the one we are experiencing right now demonstrate why these initiatives are so important for our city."

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