How the Walton Street barrier in Oxford prompted protests

Some residents were in favour of the barrier while others were not.

Some traders were also opposed to the barrier at the junction of Worcester Street and said trade had been affected by the closure.

Jamie Hartzell at a protest at the barrier in December 2019

The route was closed in the summer of 2019 for resurfacing and the county council then decided to keep it closed 'on a trial basis'.

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Walton Street was closed off at the junction with Worcester Street and Beaumont Street to remain shut for up to 18 months on a trial basis.

The issue proved divisive - some residents welcomed the move while others wanted the street to be reopened.

Members of Don’t Choke Jericho! who were happy with the closure showed their support in December 2019 by putting up Christmas trees next to the barrier and decorating them with tinsel.

A Christmas protest at the Walton Street barrier in December 2019

Spokesman Jamie Hartzell, from Kingston Road, said at the time: “The closure of Walton Street has raised strong feelings on both sides.

“But it’s clear from the many conversations I have had that everyone agrees we want a calmer, safer and less polluted Jericho.

Residents in St Bernard's Road protest about traffic

“What we need is a vision for our streets that unites our community and that reflects the power and strength of the people who live here.”

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A rival group, Jericho Connections, called for the county council to reopen the street while ‘baseline data’ was collected prior to a formal consultation.

Jericho resident John Mair at the Walton Street barrier

Today, following consultation, county council leaders are expected to agree with the officers' recommendation that the barrier will be removed, with vehicle access restored in both directions on Walton Street.