As lockdown restrictions are eased, now is the time to push for measures to preserve our cleaner air and quieter streets, and ensure continued high levels of walking and cycling.  

Following the government’s recent announcement of Emergency Active Travel funding, Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council are developing plans for better cycling and walking infrastructure, including urgent measures in preparation for shops re-opening on 15 June. These are expected to include “new bike parking, segregated cycle lanes, wider footpaths, pedestrianising roads, and zones for outdoor tables and chairs“.

Last week we wrote to Oxfordshire County Council, together with eleven other Oxford community groups, to express our support for proposals to “build Oxford back better”, by widening of pavements, building segregated cycle lanes and increasing cycle parking in the city. You can read the letter here. The same groups have now launched a petition calling on the county council to implement measures to ensure safe social distancing and boost cycling and walking in Oxford – sign the petition here.