Environment

The Thames Valley consists of several large conurbations, small towns and villages, and rural countryside of woodlands, heaths, downs and agricultural land. In general terms the area is more urbanised in the east, more rural in the west and north.

The area is one of the driest regions in the UK and thus vulnerable to water shortages. Conversely the Thames and a large network of other river systems are historically prone to flooding, which remains a significant risk for many parts of the area (Source: Environment Agency).