With extreme weather events on the rise, what does Henley’s flood future look like—and how can we respond in ways that keep our homes, businesses, and communities safe?

• In 25 years’ time, 1 in 4 properties in England will be in areas at risk of flooding
• Flooding poses a risk to water quality – heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, flushing pollutants and even untreated sewage into our rivers
• The iconic Henley Swim was cancelled after 20+ years due to growing pollution concerns and falling participation
• Recent test results are continuing to show evidence of poor water quality in Henley.  A recent reading taken in May 2025 by HoT Water was 5 times the satisfactory level of E. coli

Join us for an engaging evening panel discussion featuring leading experts in flooding, emergency planning, and insurance – a critical part of our overall strategy for managing flood impacts and protecting what matters most, and an area that is likely to be ever more important.

Our panelists will examine how residents, businesses and organisations across our town can all work together to become safer in the face of flooding, with plenty of opportunity for audience questions.  The discussion will also cover how flooding will affect the sport of rowing and the Henley Royal Regatta, which brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to the town every year.

As flooding becomes more frequent and intense, so too does the risk to water quality – heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, flushing pollutants and even untreated sewage into our rivers.

Our panelists include:

• Dr Jess Neumann – Associate Professor in Hydrology, expert in flood risk management and community preparedness
• Toby Garbett – Olympic rower and owner of local Henley business TG Gym and Wellness
• David Rochester – Head of Reserving, Flood Re; expert in climate risk & flood insurance
• Dr Pete Sudbury – Oxfordshire Flooding Taskforce, Oxfordshire County Council

The evening will be facilitated by broadcaster and journalist, Ginny Buckley.

Who is this event for?

Everyone who lives and works in and around Henley.  Flood risk is no longer confined to homes by rivers or low-lying areas.  As Dr Jess Neumann explains:
“Flash flooding from sudden and intense rainfall can strike anywhere with little-to-no warning. Flash floods are often highly localised and tricky to accurately forecast – your house or road can be flooded whilst your neighbours remain safe and dry. Living on a hill, or away from a river doesn’t mean you can’t be flooded by surface water… and it can happen within minutes.”

What to Expect

• Expert insights: Cutting edge science to real-world experience
• Audience Q&A: Your chance to ask the panel your questions
• Community discussion: Drinks and networking before and after the panel

Why you should attend

This event isn’t just about highlighting problems—it’s about finding solutions. We’ll explore:

• What individuals and businesses can do to prepare for flooding
• How communities can monitor and protect water quality
• How local and national policies need to change

Flooding affects more than just your doorstep – it impacts health, safety, local businesses, and our environment.  This is your chance to get the facts, ask tough questions, and be part of the solution for a safer, more resilient Henley.

This event is kindly sponsored by Henley Rugby Club