In Abbey House, Abingdon, this afternoon and evening there was a consultation event about the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme. There was a good turn out. People were queuing outside when they opened, and about 200 people attended.

Currently they are asking people what is the preferred route and type of channel from the Botley Road to Sandford Lock. The route is divided into sections. Section 1, near the Botley Road, has only one feasible option. Section 2 has four options etc. So we are being asked what is the preferred route in each of the places.

They are also consulting about how best to deal with the material dug out while creating the channel, and how to minimise disruption during construction. These seem to be questions more of interest for people near the route in Oxford.

There was a board about flood alleviation options for Abingdon with smaller projects for the River Stert and the area near St Helen’Mill, and a possible larger project for holding back flood water from the Ock the other side of the A34. But that needs modelling, with the latest rainfall predictions which may need to be set 35% higher.

The recommended route of the channel should be decided by summer 2016, and the detailed design completed in 2017. They will then hold a consultation before submitting a planning application. Everybody I asked from the EA (Environment Agency) said that the project should not make things worse for Abingdon. They need to demonstrate that before getting the go ahead.

The consultation is at https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/portal/area/se/flood/oxford/scheme?pointId=3765916.