Floods: More sandbags on standby (From Witney Gazette)

Floods: More sandbags on standby

7:56am Sunday 20th January 2008 in Witney

SUPPLIES of sandbags have been restocked around Oxford as the county remains on flood alert today.

More sandbags have been supplied at various sites around the city, including:

• PC World in Botley Road
• The Duke of Monmouth Public House in Abingdon Road
• Redbridge park-and-ride in Abingdon Road.

A city council spokesman said: "A water pump is on stand-by ready to respond to emergencies as necessary.

"The sandbag protection at Bullstake Close is still providing protection to residents and staff from Oxford City Homes are monitoring the situation.

"Wolvercote has been inspected and water levels in the surface drainage system are as yesterday just below point at which we would start to pump. City Works staff are regularly monitoring the situation.

"Officers have inspected the towpath and have advised everyone to avoid the area as parts of the towpath are under water. Users are recommended to find an alternative route for the time being.

'The situation is changeable and we will continue to monitor developments. We would encourage residents to monitor the situation as well and be responsible for their own properties'

City council spokesman

"We are in constant communication with the Environment Agency and are responding to calls from the public with up-to-date information.

"The situation is changeable and we will continue to monitor developments. We would encourage residents to monitor the situation as well and be responsible for their own properties."

A spokesman for West Oxfordshire District Council said some residents hadevacuated from the Bablockhythe caravan park as the road to the park had been closed and was only accessible by 4x4 vehicles.

"The latest weather forecast of low rainfall levels has lessened the chance of widespread flooding. However all the agencies are remaining vigilant and prepared, should the situation change.

So far 5,500 sandbags have been issued in the district and they are free to anyone whose home is at immediate risk of flooding.

To request sandbags telephone 01993 861000 during normal work hours. Outside of working hours telephone 01993 705056.