Residents invited to explore the future of our rivers and streams

West Oxfordshire residents are invited to attend a Waterways Fair, hosted by West Oxfordshire District Council, on Saturday 25 October at the Corn Exchange, Witney, running from 10am to 2pm. 


The fair will showcase the work of local groups, charities and agencies dedicated to protecting and improving our rivers, streams and wetlands. From tackling sewage pollution and agricultural impacts to improving flood resilience and restoring habitats, residents will be able to explore the challenges facing our waterways and the innovative solutions already under way. 

Cllr Lidia Arciszewska, Executive Member for the Environment, said: 
"Our rivers are at the heart of West Oxfordshire – they shape our towns, our countryside, and our way of life. Every flood, every discharge, every polluted stretch of river is a reminder that we cannot take our waterways for granted. 
“Over the past year, we’ve pushed for real accountability, strengthened our work on flood management, stood alongside local campaigners calling for cleaner rivers, and pressed for urgent action on sewage pollution. The Waterways Fair is a chance for residents to meet the organisations leading this call, ask questions, and discover the part we can all play in safeguarding our waterways." 

Organisations taking part include: 


  • Evenlode Catchment Partnership 
  • Witney Flood Group 
  • Cotswolds Rivers Trust 
  • Windrush Against Sewage Pollution (WASP) 
  • Thames Water 
  • Oxfordshire County Council Highways 
  • Environment Agency 


Visitors will be able to explore a range of displays, activities and demonstrations. From learning about wetlands, river restoration and citizen science, to seeing how local flood sensors work and finding out more about community emergency planning, there will be plenty of practical insights to take away. 


The Waterways Fair is free to attend and open to all. No booking or tickets are required. 


Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

communications@westoxon.gov.uk


More Articles

Council approves Community Infrastructure Levy to support future infrastructure in West Oxfordshire

October 1, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council has approved a Community Infrastructure Levy, helping to ensure new developments support local services and facilities.

The Witney Vegan Fiesta is returning to Witney this weekend

October 1, 2025
Planning a weekend treat? Head to Marriotts Walk on Saturday 4 October for a vegan extravaganza - think tasty eats, local makers and feel-good vibes.

West Oxfordshire to develop districtwide energy plan to support net zero future

October 1, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council will move forward with the next phase of work to help the district plan for a cleaner, greener energy future.

Council proposes £3.5 million investment to improve leisure centres across the district

September 30, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council is considering a proposed five-year plan to invest £3.5 million in its leisure centres and sports facilities.

New job opportunity in the Carterton area!

September 30, 2025
We’re looking for a new Economic Regeneration Lead to help drive forward exciting projects in the Carterton area and across the district.

Exploring the hidden world of Oxfordshire’s soil

September 30, 2025
Wild Oxfordshire is hosting Secrets of the Soil: Digging Deep for Nature’s Recovery on Saturday 8th November at Rose Hill Community Centre.

Don’t lose your vote – check your registration details now

September 29, 2025
Residents across West Oxfordshire are being urged to check their voter registration details as this year’s Annual Canvass gets underway.

Community groups transforming lives across West Oxfordshire in the first of a three-year funding programme

September 29, 2025
Families, older residents and local communities are seeing the benefits of more than half a million pounds of funding from West Oxfordshire District Council.

Council to engage local communities on how to best manage public toilets

September 29, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council will be considering proposals to speak with local town and parish councils on how to best manage public toilets.

New strategy to restore nature and tackle climate change

September 29, 2025
We have endorsed the new Local Nature Recovery Strategy – a countywide plan to help restore and protect nature across Oxfordshire.
Show More