Business has been boosted by LTNs in an East Oxford road, according to a community group.

Oxfordshire Liveable Streets said 23 new businesses have opened on the Cowley Road since the introduction of the East Oxford Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) in 2021.

The group, which supports the scheme which aims to reduce congestion and pollution, said in 2022, the first full year of the LTN being in place, the number of new businesses opening rose by 56 per cent compared to the previous year.

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Gareth Pentz, who works at Reg Taylor Cycles on Iffley Road, said the LTNs have been "amazing" for business.

He said: "We have a two week wait for repairs, we can’t work fast enough. I’ve had whole families coming in sorting their bikes out, and some getting rid of their cars, so they're definitely working and getting people moving in different ways, whatever people say.

"Loads of different types of people cycling, and we’re rushed off our feet.”

Small business owner Robin Tucker, co-chair of the Coalition for Healthy Streets and Active Travel (CoHSAT), added: “When it comes to retail trade, the evidence shows that the pedestrian pound really boosts local business.

Oxford Mail:

"People are more likely to spend time in shops, cafes and restaurants in areas that feel pleasant to walk and cycle in.

"It’s good for our wellbeing and good for the economy too.”

Oxfordshire Liveable Streets used data from Companies House to count the numbers of businesses opening on Cowley Road from 2010 to 2022.

It found that since 2010, over 200 new businesses have opened on the Cowley Road, an average of more than 15 every year. 

It then looked up the new businesses that opened on Cowley Road in 2021 and 2022.

The findings are in stark contrast to a business impact survey carried out by Cowley Road Traders in February which found eight shops have closed where LTNs are located with more just 'hanging on'.

The group estimated 153 shops were affected directly or indirectly through loss of customers, loss of parking, logistical problems with deliveries to the businesses and deliveries to customers.

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Some business owners said that turnover had decreased by 50 per cent but more commonly figures of 15-30 per cent were quoted.  

A spokesperson for the traders said: "The sheer scale of the harm that is being done to Cowley Road shops is very concerning."

The county council has said that although the online consultation on the East Oxford LTNs has closed people can continue sharing their feedback by emailing or calling them.

This will contribute to the reporting that will be presented to cabinet for a decision on whether to continue the scheme later this year.