Witney News - Flood Protection Products Fair

Flood Protection Products Fair

In association with the Environment Agency and the National Flood Forum, West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) will be holding a Flood Protection Products Fair on Friday 16th November from 2.30 - 6.30pm at the Windrush Leisure Centre, Witney.

Entry to the fair is free and it aims to bring together flood protection products and services, ideas, help and information, for the benefit of those who have been affected by or are at risk of flooding.

At the Flood Defence Fair visitors will be able to:
- Check if their home or business is in a flood risk area
- Find out about flood warning services and how to sign up
- Get advice on practical steps to protect their home from flooding
- Pick up a range of information and check out useful websites
- Check out the range of flood defence devices on sale
- Develop a own home or business flood plan

Cllr David Harvey, Cabinet Member for Environment at West Oxfordshire District Council said, "Over 1,600 homes and around 80 businesses across West Oxfordshire were affected by this summer's floods causing millions of pounds worth of damage. We are delighted to be supporting this initiative – it is an opportunity for anyone with concerns for the safety of their homes and family to come along and acquire a great deal of useful information to help protect themselves."

West Oxfordshire District Council was on hand with the emergency services to deal with thousands of calls for help during the worst of the wet weather in July.

During five days at the height of the crisis the Council's emergency planning team distributed 30,000 sandbags and set up shelters for people whose homes were uninhabitable.

To date over 900 flood relief grants have been awarded to £250 to residents. Anyone wishing to apply for this funding should complete an online application form at www.westoxon.gov.uk/flooding. Alternatively, visit one of the council reception areas or Town Centre Shops or call 01993 861000. The closing date for applications is 31 December 2007.

A Flood Protection Fair is also taking place at the Kings Centre, Osney Mead, Oxford on Thursday 15th November from 3 to 8pm.