Environment Agency staff started drilling boreholes in Oxford yesterday to help prevent further major flooding in the city.
The investigation work is taking place at 30 sites around Oxford, including New Botley and areas in and around Hinksey.
In July last year, serious flooding hit Osney Island and other homes in West Oxford and about 160 properties were flooded. Many are still being repaired.
Geoff Bell, area flood risk manager at the Environment Agency, said: "This is a vital part of the work that we need to carry out in Oxford as part of our strategy to find a sustainable solution to reducing the risk of flooding to more than 3,600 properties in Oxford."
Drilling started on parts of Old Abingdon Road, causing temporary traffic delays for drivers. One side of the road will also be closed today between 9.30am and 3.30pm with traffic controls in place.
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