Residents in Earl Street faced severe flooding a year ago

The electrically powered pumps have been built into a well in Earl Street in Botley - where residents faced severe flooding a year ago.

The pumps, which cost �38,000, will automatically switch on when the water reaches a critical level.

The water will then be funnelled away from the area along newly constructed gullies in Earl Street and the path between Earl and Duke Streets.

Flood protection

The decision to install the pumps was taken after public meetings organised by residents and Oxford City Council.

Councillor Bob Price said: "Residents have told the government agencies that they want action to protect their homes.

"The city council is determined to do everything it can to minimise the risk of damage to people's homes.

"Residents will always need to be prepared for floods, but our engineers are confident that the new pumps will be able to cope with similar water levels to those seen in 2000 and 2003."