“The trial of the east Oxford low traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) is continuing as planned”, says the council’s cabinet member for highways management.

Oxfordshire County Councillor Andrew Gant has released a statement online responding to the ‘range of views’ on the bollards which have caused controversy throughout the city.

The highways authority introduced the bollards earlier this year as a trial, though LTNS installed in Cowley have since been made permanent, and the scheme has divided communities.

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LTNs have been fiercely criticised for displacing traffic onto busier roads. Many have even been vandalised including being set on fire and cut down.

Mr Gant said: “It is disappointing that a few individuals see fit to damage the LTN bollards and their fittings.

“We will continue to make safe and reinstate all damaged bollards that have been forcibly knocked down or uprooted.

“Vandalism of this kind is a serious criminal offence and correcting it takes a lot of time and effort from our highway officers.

“To ensure the safety of other road users, it is necessary for damaged bollards to be removed and the area made safe until a new bollard can be fitted.

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“For this reason, metal plates have been fitted temporarily at these locations as a safety measure whilst bollards are being repaired or replaced. They are installed to protect road users and prevent further vandalism. 

“In the meantime, we are also exploring other solutions to ensure that the LTNs continue to work on the ground, including looking at options to install heavy duty bollards, and options for automatic number plate recognition cameras (ANPR) cameras.

“We are also working to improve the city’s transport network, including proposals to introduce six trial filters to improve bus journey times and plans to improve safety at The Plain roundabout.

“While there are strong opinions, one thing that has stood out from people on both sides of the debate is the understanding that urgent action is needed to improve our transport system so that walking and cycling is safer, our air is cleaner, and traffic is reduced for essential journeys.

“Vandalism of LTN bollards does not achieve anything and will not deter us from delivering our objectives. However, we will continue to engage with residents and businesses to ensure that everyone’s voices are heard during the planning process.”

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The councillor added that his is ‘committed’ to hearing peoples views on the bollards and have urged people to take part in the public consultation which is open until November 30.

To take part in the public consultation, visit: letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/east-oxford-ltns-2022

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Read more from this author

This story was written by Gee Harland. She joined the team in 2022 as a senior multimedia reporter.

Gee covers Wallingford, Wantage and Didcot.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Gee.harland@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @Geeharland

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