The UK Environment Agency has appointed Graham to lead construction of the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme, an infrastructure project aimed at reducing flood risk in England.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and will take up to five years for completion.
The planned works involve building a new 5km-long channel and wetlands corridor west of the city centre, stretching from north of Botley Road to Kennington, where it will reconnect with the River Thames.
This is aimed at rerouting excess water during times of flooding, thereby lowering the risk to nearby homes, businesses, railway lines and utility networks.
According to Graham, modelling forecasts suggest the scheme will spare the city from substantial financial losses, with damage reduction estimates placed at approximately £1.8bn over its lifetime.
This figure reflects anticipated prevention of damage and disturbances to the community caused by river flooding.
The project involves modifying parts of the existing floodplain and incorporating new infrastructure such as embankments, flood walls, culverts, bridges and flood gates.
In addition, the scheme includes plans to establish over 20 hectares (ha) of new wetland habitat and about 16ha of restored meadow. These additions will link up existing wildlife sites and contribute to local biodiversity.
The project will also see the removal of the historic Towles Mill weir on Seacourt Stream, a move intended to allow aquatic species, particularly fish, to navigate local waterways without obstruction for the first time in generations.
Graham contracts director Alastair Lewis said: “This is an extremely important project, given Oxford has lived with the threat of serious flooding for generations. The vital piece of infrastructure will tackle the flood risk directly in a way that works with the landscape rather than against it.
“Our experienced team is well-versed on handling the complexities that come with this kind of work, and are very excited to be working for the Environment Agency on such a prestigious project.”
The scheme was procured through the Construction Works and Associated Services 2 (CWAS2) agreement with the Government Commercial Agency.
Key stakeholders collaborating on the project include the Environment Agency, Oxfordshire County and City Councils, University of Oxford, Thames Water and National Highways.
Environment Agency project director Robbie Williams said: “The Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme will provide the communities of Oxford with peace of mind from the threat of flooding, for decades to come and will leave a lasting green legacy. We are really looking forward to working with GRAHAM, following a rigorous tender process.”
