The area is extremely sensitive to flooding.

In 2007 more than 365 houses were flooded here.  WODC have stated in their flood report: “…. further gravel extraction or other major developments beyond existing allocations should not be permitted without the fullest consideration of the potential of that development to worsen or ameliorate the flooding situation”.

The ‘drop’ to the Thames in the Clanfield/Bampton area is very slight indeed, only 1½ metres in 2-3 kilometres.  This means the pattern of subterranean water flows is very varied and cannot be imitated reliably by any computer programme.  If this water flow is interrupted it could have a major effect on the probability of flooding.

If the ancient water retaining structure of the earth is replaced by crushed inert material (infill) it will have an immediate effect on the hydrology of the area due to differing porosity.  This would be further disturbed and affected by earth mounds.

The water table throughout the area is particularly high, generally only 1-3 feet below ground level.  Defence Estates (referring to RAF Brize Norton) have objected to any major expanses of water in this area and the nominations mention ‘dry working’.  How is this to be done without blocking the incursion of water and the continual removal of ‘seepage’ water?

If water is to be removed by pumping, where is it to be pumped to?  Surely not into our small, ancient ditches and brooks which have difficulty handling the normal run-off..

Much of the proposed excavation area lies in the historical flood plains which act as a massive water storage area when necessary.  Where will this water go to?  Into the Thames and who will it then flood?

There are more than 260 premises (private and commercial) in the Clanfield/Bampton area that rely solely on wells for their water supply.  These would all be put at risk.

We believe excavation in this area would produce many dangers.