Oxford’s controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTN) scheme has cost the local council almost £4 million since it was rolled out four years ago. The traffic measures, which restrict vehicle access to certain parts of the city by using cameras, planters or bollards, have been hugely unpopular with some residents, who say the scheme causes “misery” on a daily basis. The Liberal Democrat-run council permanently installed LTNs after an initial 18-month trial period in 2021 in the hopes that they would improve road safety and air quality in Oxford.
The plans also involved the creation of new cycle routes – which were included in the £3.8 million spent on LTNs between 2021 and 2024, according to a Freedom of Information request lodged by the Oxford Mail. Delivery of the measures was funded by a central government grant but ongoing maintenance costs will come out of the local authority’s budget – sparking accusations of a “tone deaf” approach to governance.
Criticisms of the scheme include suggestions that it worsens traffic through the city and exacerbates air pollution in certain areas.
Independent councillor Saj Malik said: “We expect the county council to provide the services we pay for, but then they tell us there’s no money because they waste it on their pet projects like the LTNs. It’s completely tone deaf.
“I spend a lot of time speaking to residents and business owners and it’s rare to find anyone who actually wants them … In [my ward] Cowley, we’re at the sharp end of these transport restrictions and they make our lives a misery on a daily basis.”
Fellow independent David Henwood also suggested that the scheme’s £55,000 running costs represented an “irresponsible use of the public purse”.
LTNs are part of the government’s effort to tackle air pollution in the UK and increase travel on bike or by foot, and the Conservatives announced mass funding for Sadiq Khan’s London-based scheme in spring 2020.
Alongside Oxford, other UK cities that recently introduced LTNs iclude Bristol, Manchester, Birmingham and Sheffield.
An Oxfordshire County Council spokesperson said: “LTNs make residential streets healthier to live on and safer and more comfortable for walking, wheeling and cycling
“Data from the 2021 census indicates that there are about 22,000 residents within the low traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) in Cowley and East Oxford. They are benefitting from lower air pollution, reduced noise levels and safer streets.”
Residents in south London won a High Court battle with local officials over an LTN scheme this week after judges ruled that it had been introduced by Lambeth Council without adequate consultation. Residents said the neighbourhood, which was implemented in September, had a damaging effect on businesses, pollution and safety, and the court heard that attempts to engage with the council were ignored.