Navigating Change: Low Traffic Neighbourhoods in Central Oxford

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) have become a focal point of urban planning and transportation initiatives, and Oxford is no exception to this evolving trend.

The primary objective of LTNs is to prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and local residents by limiting through-traffic in specific neighbourhoods. Oxford, like many other cities, faces concerns related to congestion, air quality, and overall livability. LTNs are designed to address these issues by creating quieter, more environmentally friendly residential areas. As LTNs continue to be implemented in Oxford, the city finds itself at the intersection of change, where the benefits and challenges of these initiatives are being closely examined.

However, the implementation of LTNs is not without its challenges. Many Oxford residents have been left furious by the development of these LTNs, especially the ones around St Clements. David Cartwright, a local who has lived in East Oxford for over 50 years, said ‘These LTNs are despicable, they don’t look out for the people and it’s insulting to the residents who have lived here for so many years’. David’s viewpoint is not uncommon throughout the community at this time.

Critics complain that LTNs have caused difficulty manoeuvring around the city centre, causing disruption in traffic flow and therefore making it increasingly challenging for people attempting to get to work or school due to increased congestion. This congestion also does not result in a cleaner space as more fossil fuels are burnt while cars are being forced to run for longer unnecessarily. 

The impact on businesses is also of great concern. Many business owners have blamed these new LTNs on a decrease in business as they have acted as a deterrent for people who otherwise would have visited the area but are unmotivated to travel due to the added difficulty and congestion. For example, after 17 years, Reign Vintage on Cowley Road was forced to close their Oxford branch, partially due to a decrease in foot traffic due to the LTNs. The owners of restaurants such as the Temple Lounge also stated last year that ‘The council’s decision to put these bollards up along Cowley Road was the main reason (for closing), people don’t want to travel here anymore’. LTNs have therefore been deemed damaging to trade in the area and have been heavily criticised. 

Critics have also argued that LTNs cause a detrimental impact upon disadvantaged groups, such as those who rely on cars for mobility. People with disabilities or those with specific transportation needs might find it challenging to adapt to changes in traffic patterns as well as struggling with the increase in congestion. Other concerns include the potential impact of LTNs on the response times of emergency services as road closures block certain paths of access. 

Due to the negative response towards the supposedly sustainable and people-centric LTNs, there have been numerous protests and even the formation of a new political party in order to combat these new changes.