Environment

The Flood Plain

Oxpens Meadow is a natural flood plain. The Thames overflows onto the lower part of the Meadow. Here it is met by the flood waters coming from the Castle Mill Stream. The existence of this natural overflow system helps to prevent the danger of flooding to people and property further downstream.

The Meadow Trees

The mature trees along the Castle Mill Stream and bordering the Thames provide excellent cover for a wide range of birds – over 50 species have been observed. At dusk bats can be seen flitting up and down the line of trees hunting for insects. There is also a lovely line of blue cedars planted along the side of the Ice Rink which help to soften its outline. One of the proposals in the West End Plan would involve the construction of a service road along the side and back of the Ice Rink. This would not only drastically reduce the environmental appeal of the Meadow but would also risk damage to the cedars.

Oxford Urban Wildlife Group Survey

On 23 July 2009 the Oxford Urban Wildlife Group conducted a survey on Oxpens Meadow. 104 types of plants and trees were identified and recorded in a 2-hour period. The Survey leader - Camilla Lambick - reported that:

'A good range of plants is present including some of interest such as sweet flag, field rose, purple willow and square-stemmed St. John's wort...'

'This meadow and the adjacent areas of trees and scrub to the north form an important link in the wildlife corridor which runs through the city, its value in this respect could be increased by widening the zone of tall grass suitable for flowering herbs and the insects and birds that that would support...'