The Head of Executive Director for Community Services has submitted a report which seeks approval to complete the memorandum of understanding -Oxford and Abingdon Flood Alleviation Schemes.

Officer Recommendation: That the City Executive Board delegate authority to the Executive Director Community Services to complete the Memorandum of Understanding in respect of the Oxford and Abingdon Flood Alleviation Schemes.

The Executive Director for Community Services submitted a report (previously circulated, now appended) which sought approval to complete the memorandum of understanding - Oxford and Abingdon Flood Alleviation Schemes.

Cllr Turner, Board Member for Finance, Asset Management and Public Health presented the report.

The Executive Director of Community Services explained how last year’s flooding made flood prevention a priority, and highlighted the need for agencies to work together.

The Chief Executive said that the MoU showed how partnership working and relationship building play an important part in making progress. He thanked the Executive Director of Community Services for his work at leading this project.

Cllr Tanner thanked the Environment Agency, Oxfordshire County Council and officers for their work. Although the measure won’t end the threat of flooding, they will make Oxford open for business for all. He explained that more was needed than a relief channel,  that Council needed to do more to clear the waterways in Oxford and put pressure on farmers and Government so that the land had a greater capacity to hold water.

The City Executive Board resolved to DELEGATE AUTHORITY to the Executive Director of Community Services to complete the Memorandum of Understanding in respect of the Oxford and Abingdon Flood Alleviation Schemes.