Update 22 January 2024
The forecast over the next few days remains dry, albeit very cold, so the water should continue to slowly recede. However, after that, further rainfall has been forecast. The standing water combined with cold weather also increases the chances of ice hazards for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, so we are urging caution and care when out and about.
Oxford Direct Services (ODS) is continuing to closely monitor the situation and respond, working closely with the Environment Agency (EA) which is managing the water flow through the river network.
ODS, on behalf of Oxford City Council, working alongside the Environment Agency, has deployed temporary flood protection measures at:
- Bulstake Close (flood water is continuing to fall and we expect to remove the flood barriers soon)
- Osney Island - West Street (flood barrier installed)
- Vicarage Lane (flood barrier and pump have now been demobilised as flood water has not returned)
Officers are out and about across Oxford to closely monitor the situation and are prepared to move quickly to take further action if needed.
Wild swimming
Results of water testing at Hinksey Lake have revealed that the recent flooding and run off has increased contamination - including an increase in the level of E coli. It is likely there will be similarly increased levels of contamination in many areas of the river and other open water bodies.
We strongly advise against wild swimming at this time, given the enhanced water quality risks and swollen river conditions.
Although the recent extensive floodwater in the city is now receding, the ground remains saturated and river levels remain high. Any further rain in the coming weeks will result in further run off into water courses, increasing risks of strong currents and water contamination. These risks will therefore likely remain for some time to come.
Abingdon Road
Abingdon Road is now fully open again following the recent flooding. Fire crews have finished pumping water away, a clean-up has taken place, and the road has been gritted. The High Street bus gate is now back in operation.
Seacourt Park and Ride
Seacourt Park & Ride has now partially re-opened as the flood water has subsided. Please be aware that the extension area currently remains closed. We will update once it is fully reopened.
Sandbags
If you have unused sandbags, it is recommended that you keep hold of these until the end of the flood season.
Contaminated sandbags that have been used for residential premises can be disposed of at one of the county’s household waste and recycling centres, provided they are not contaminated with oil.
Residents can also visit the waste wizard on the County Council's website, which offers location based advice on their disposal. Businesses are asked to make their own arrangements for disposal.
Sandbags for imminent risk households and vulnerable people
ODS is deploying sandbags and is distributing them to households at imminent risk of flooding at specific locations. Sandbags will also be provided to other vulnerable householders in extreme emergency as part of our strategic flood prevention activity.
Contact us for assistance by phoning 01865 249811 and selecting option 1 on weekdays, or option 6 out of hours.
Self-fill sandbag station
We are also supporting Oxfordshire County Council with the distribution of sandbags within Oxford.
A self-fill sandbag station is available at Redbridge Park & Ride lorry park (accessed off Old Abingdon Road). If you require sandbags to protect your home from flooding, please visit the site.
You can also find out where to buy sandbags on our protecting your property webpage.
