Anti-LTN campaigners are expected to descend on Oxford from across the country this weekend to protest the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) scheme.

The so-called 15 minute neighbourhood proposals have caused controversy in Oxford since their inception last summer.

Here is everything you need to know about the demonstration:

When is it taking place?

The protest will be taking place on Saturday February 18.

A poster urging people to attend to "save businesses, jobs, right to education, freedom of movement, worship and family life" has been circulating on social media.

It comes around one month after people from all over the UK leafleted households across Oxford about the traffic filters.

The LTN bollards in east Oxford have been repeatedly vandalised with some removed since the scheme was first introduced last summer.

READ MORE: CCTV of LTN vandalism in Oxford released by residents

What are Low Traffic Neighbourhoods?

LTNs are a scheme introduced by the government to attempt to lower traffic levels in highly populated areas.

The aim is to increase the numbers of people walking and cycling, and in turn, cut carbon dioxide emissions in the areas they are enforced in.

They work by using barriers and bollards to restrict the access of cars and other vehicles but allow cyclists and pedestrians to pass through.

Who is involved?

The protest against LTNs in Oxford has gained the attention of several right-wing groups.

Among those promised to attend are Covid-19 lockdown sceptics Dan Astin-Gregory, a You-Tuber, and campaigner Jonathan Tilt. 

What has been said about the LTN protest on social media

The event has been heavily discussed on social media.

READ MORE: Oxford hotelier ‘regrets’ Holocaust LTN comments

One Twitter user, ‘@nickelsgb’, told his followers: “Anyone going to Oxford on the 18th of February to smash these barriers up remember the police work for them[,] although it’s you that pay their wages.

"Policemen[,] you don’t want barriers either[;] how will you get to any crimes[?] Best to turn a blind eye.”

Replying to the post, a ‘Michael Wilkins’ said: “If anyone gets arrested and charged for smashing up these barriers it’ll be f***ing hilarious.”

What have the police said?

Thames Valley Police has said it is well aware of the challenges posed by the protest on Saturday.

In a statement on February 16, detective chief superintendent Colin Paine of Thames Valley Police said: “We will ensure there is a proportionate policing presence in place on Saturday and our priority will be to ensure the safety of all those engaging in the event, including road users, members of the public, event organisers and businesses.

“Our neighbourhood policing teams will seek to engage with those in attendance and will be available to speak to and address any questions or concerns you may have.”

He added: “It is important to stress that where any criminal offences are committed, an appropriate response will be put in place and such incidents investigated.

“I would therefore seek to reassure the local community that we have a comprehensive policing operation in place to manage any impacts from the event, and I would like to thank the public for their co-operation and support.”