Oxfordshire councils pushing forward with clean air plans

Councils in Oxfordshire are pushing ahead with proposals to create the world’s first zero-emission zone in Oxford and other initiatives around the county.

The local authorities are currently looking at ambitious proposals to create a zero emission zone (ZEZ) in the city of Oxford.

According to the local authorities, this would be a long-term project to enable road users and transport operators to plan for the necessary changes, including the use of zero emission vehicles.

Despite a 37% per cent reduction in levels of toxic nitrogen dioxide across Oxford in the last decade, parts of the city centre are still failing to meet the legal limit on the pollutant.

The proposals also assume the technology and take up of zero emission electrical vehicles will continue to accelerate. The first steps in creating a zero-emission zone in Oxford could be in place as early as 2020.

Last year, a public consultation showed strong support for the ZEZ but also emphasised the need for the two councils to support businesses, transport operators and the public in making the transition.

Oxfordshire County Council’s director for planning and place, Sue Halliwell said: ‘Oxford has been identified as a city with a major air quality problem and we are looking at a range of long-term measures to tackle congestion and reduce pollution, including a zero emission zone.

‘We are delighted that the environment secretary is making this issue a national priority and believe Oxfordshire has an opportunity to become a national leader in tackling air pollution through bold transport initiatives.’

The ZEZ is part of a strategy to reduce congestion and pollution in Oxford by rolling out segregated cycle routes, bus priority, electric charging points, and other measures.

The city and county councils have agreed in principle to progress the plans to the next stage, following discussions with transport operators and other stakeholders.

Detailed proposals are now being developed for further consultation with stakeholders.