While congestion is a challenge in the city, it must be recognised that car journeys are a vital component in a range of options that enable individuals to move around the city effectively, and that they are the only realistic option for some individuals and in some circumstances.
We believe the best way to encourage fewer car journeys and reduce congestion is to provide effective alternatives to car travel, and to facilitate traffic movement through careful road design, including one-way systems that also make busy junctions safer.
We also recognise that just as transport demands and patterns evolve over time, so must the techniques which are used to fairly address the needs of all road users.
Whatever changes are proposed, decisions need to be informed, and significantly influenced, by the results from public consultation.
Our commitment is to:
- Review, and potentially remove/amend, existing traffic restriction schemes: LTNs, CPZs, and congestion charge; as well as use of the raised kerbs at side-road entrances.
- Review, and potentially change, plans for new traffic restriction schemes: Traffic Filters, ZEZ expansion, Workplace Parking Levy.
- Trial new traffic management systems, including one-way streets.
- Improve public transport and cycling infrastructure, with separation of cyclists and motor vehicles where possible.
- Improve access to car parking, including reinstatement of scratch cards for CPZ visitors and car park spaces local to shops.
- Review the impact of scooters and electric bikes on pavements and pedestrians
- Request Thames Valley Police enforce the Highway Code for all road users, to improve safety.
Oxford Travel and Transport Focus Group Report
As part of our commitment to listen to the people of Oxford, the Independent Oxford Alliance commissioned Clarke Associates to conduct a focus group study to investigate the travel patterns and needs of citizens, often the ‘silent majority’, who may have particular difficulties with the traffic measures implemented or proposed by the current City and County Councillors. This is their report.
Some of the recommendations include:
- New housing developments will include appropriate & adequate parking spaces.
- 20mph speed limits be returned to 30mph on main roads
- Improving the availability & functionality of public transport as a priority.
- New traffic routing systems, using carefully designed one-way systems, to improve traffic flows and maintain access across the city.