Flooding in Oxford Exhibition

Port Meadow in flood, taken by Julian Cooper in January 2021.

Regular major flooding in and around Oxford has long been a problem but the types of flooding are changing.

Oxford is close to the meeting (confluence) of the Thames, Cherwell, the Ray, Windrush and Bayswater Brook. As a result, heavy rainfall anywhere in a very large area can cause rising water levels downstream in Oxford. There is a large, flat area around at Port Meadow which fills in time of flood, as shown here in 2021.

Flooding in the past

Serious flooding occurred every 10-20 years throughout the 19^th century, mainly affecting residential areas, including St Ebbes, Jericho, Osney, Botley Road, the railway station, Abingdon Road, Cold Harbour and Hinksey. These low lying areas were often inhabited by the poor, who frequently suffered the most from flooding. 

A major flood occured in 1852.  On the 20^th of December of that year, the Times reported that “although the floods have considerably abated from what they were some weeks ago,.. they cover the fields around Oxford…Cases of fever are reported to have occurred from low-lying houses near the river near the water, and attention to this cannot be too earnestly given."

The Rose Revived pub in flood, photographed by Nigel Elliott. Comparison by Julie Ann Godson.

Abingdon Road flooded in 1894 and dry in 2021, by local historian Julie Ann Godson.

On the 20^th of December 1852, the Times reported that “although the floods have considerably abated from what they were some weeks ago,.. they cover the fields around Oxford…Cases of fever are reported to have occurred from low-lying houses near the river near the water, and attention to this cannot be too earnestly given."

After a terrible flood in 1894, the Mayor of Oxford, Mr C. Underhill complained about the building of houses in low lying areas. He was quoted as saying “….a strong feeling of indignation was passing through his breast with those who permitted buildings and put up buildings in such a miserable situation. “ 

These same thoughts are often echoed today. 

Local resident, Mathew Morton, on how we can reduce flooding

Local resident, Chris Richmond.

Controlling flooding today

Oxford City Council performed a Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment in 2011, concluding, among other things, that climate change will lead to more intense rains, with three times more heavy rain days in winter and storms containing 40% more water [5.7.4]. It was also noted Oxford is in the highest level of risk of groundwater flooding [5.4.3]. But little research has been done into past flooding and further assessments seem valuable.

Tiny forests planted at Meadow Lane and Northway

Inspiring young climate change protester, EJ Fawcett, talks about her activism.

The future

So what can be done? Replanting of trees and hedges can help the ground to hold water during heavy rains so that it does not cause flooding. Projects like this are ongoing, such as the tiny forests planted at Meadow Lane and Northway. Careful choice of locations for building will be important, but as always many pressures make this a complex area. Preventing climate change will reduce the likelihood of heavy rains. Much hope lies passionate young people who are willing to stand up for change.

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