Labour welcomes the published recommendations from the Citizens Assembly. We applaud participants for their engagement with the process and all the organisations who gave evidence.

We regret that the Lib Dem – Green Administration blocked the Assembly from considering contentious policies around the proposed Traffic Filters and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods. The manner in which these schemes have been discussed and decided upon has caused much division in our communities. The Citizens Assembly was a missed opportunity to start to bring our communities back together.

Labour is clear that the Citizens Assembly must be the start of doing politics differently in Oxfordshire. From now on the County Council needs to be proactively bringing the public into the room when designing schemes and taking decisions.

Labour remains committed to halting the divisive and unworkable traffic filter scheme. We will instead work with residents to explore alternative ways to tackle congestion.

We also continue to support community-backed changes to Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). This includes the removal of restrictions on Crowell Road and exemptions for carers and blue badge holders. Labour will also work with residents to improve LTNs where there is support for them.

The Citizens Assembly shows that taking buses back under public control is a clear priority for people in Oxfordshire. Having control of routes, fares and timetables means we can improve public transport options and help people get around.

Labour also shares the view that improving the accessibility and affordability of public transport is key to tackling congestion.

—ENDS—

NOTES  FOR EDITORS: 

For interviews, please contact Cllr Liz Brighouse on 07710 451 769.