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Workers lay out the barrier

Hi-tech flood defences were unveiled in a flood-prone part of Oxford today - to the delight of local residents.

The Environment Agency (EA) has spent £180,000 on barriers stretching 410 metres to protect scores of properties on Osney Island.

Residents were able to see how the defences worked and ask agency staff about flood risk strategies for the city.

Barry Russell, area flood risk manager, told the Oxford Mail the equipment was made of lightweight metals and relatively easy to install.

He said: "In anger, we could put up the full 410 metres within four hours with six men - it's a very coordinated process and we can move very quickly.

"Residents are very pleased with what we have done. It provides people on Osney Island with a high degree of confidence.

"We are showing them exactly what it looks like and how it works."

Firefighters and Oxford City Council staff are also expected to receive training so they, too, can install the barriers, which, in an emergency, would line East Street, West Street and South Street.

Bridge Street resident William Bowell's house was flooded last July. He was only able to move back home with his wife six weeks ago.

The 74-year-old said the new barriers were a great reassurance.

He said: "We have been staying at our daughters in Abingdon - it's been a long time. I'm very impressed. The EA has really worked hard. It's very reassuring.

"We can sleep peacefully now no matter how much rain comes down. It gives us security."

Pensioner Ron Steele, who lives in East Street, where the demonstration was carried out, added: "It's nice to know people are helping.

"You never know what's going to happen with the environment, but we are better prepared now."

Lord Mayor of Oxford Susanna Pressel also praised the EA's investment.

She said: "It's brilliant. The EA has gone to a lot of trouble to show how the equipment is put up.

"They have also made so many staff available for people to ask questions."

Later this year the agency is expected to start a £1.8m programme of short-term flood-prevention measures in the city.

Former flood victims John and Kathlen McKay, of Bullstake Close, off Botley Road, called on the EA and city council to continue efforts to protect residents.

Mr Mckay said yesterday: "Today's a PR exercise, but it's nice to see they are doing something now because they have been so lethargic in the past."

6:28pm Friday 4th July 2008

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