River Thames in Datchet at highest level since devastating 2014 floods

The River Thames in Datchet has reached its highest level since the devastating floods of 2014.

More than 100 properties were flooded a decade ago after the Thames burst its banks having reached a height of 5.72 metres.

The level of the River Thames stood at 5.55 metres in Datchet at midday today, according to the Government’s flooding service.

Datchet, Horton and Wraysbury councillor Ewan Larcombe (Independent, National Flood Prevention Party) said: “If we reach the 2014 levels it will be the same as last time, in fact probably worse due to all the development that has taken place and the failure to maintain the land drainage infrastructure.”

He also hit out at the previous Conservative administration for failing to commit the £53 million required for the Royal Borough to be included in the multi-million pound River Thames flood alleviation scheme.

Back in 2020, Datchet and Wraysbury were removed from the Environment Agency’s project, which had planned to build three flood alleviation channels alongside the River Thames to protect up to 15,000 homes from flooding.

The new Lib Dem administration is instead exploring alternative flood defence measures between Datchet and Hythe End.

The council has pledged to spend £10million on the project, overseen by the Environment Agency.

Cllr Larcombe responded: “This could take 10 years, if it ever comes at all.”

A large section of Datchet Golf Club is submerged under water.

A number of road closures are also in place including Southlea Road, Datchet, Pococks Lane, Eton, and Datchet Road from Horton Village Hall to Liquid Leisure.