Consultation on the proposed extension of the Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in Central Oxford.

The County Council is currently conducting consultations on the proposed extension of the Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) that was introduced in Central Oxford in 2022. WMRA was represented at a consultation on April 5^th and we can now report the following:

• The pre-consultation phase has included meetings with local groups such as the one on April 5th
• A draft Order that will provide detail on all aspects of the scheme will require a formal consultation process and this is presently due to begin around Autumn 2024
• A decision on whether to implement the ZEZ will be made by the relevant committee of the County Council in 2025
• Implementation will be in 2026 if the Cabinet gives approval

A draft plan of the new ZEZ area can be seen at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/sites/default/files/image/roads-and-transport/ZEZ.jpg

The map link above shows that WM is outside the proposed expanded ZEZ area but it will be on the very edge. A number of issues were identified at the consultation meeting. The officer chairing the meeting undertook to take them back to his colleagues. They may or may not have been satisfactorily addressed when we see the formal proposals – and we can formally comment later this year. Key points are:

• Once the Botley Road works are completed by Network Rail the traffic filter scheme will be implemented. It will remain experimental in that its workings will be reviewed shortly after implementation to ascertain whether it needs to be adjusted before becoming permanent.
• In parallel the expanded ZEZ will still be under discussion. It is not clear whether the review above will be complete before creation of the permanent ZEZ.
• Because WM is on the edge of the ZEZ there could, certainly initially, be some traffic congestion caused by people who had not appreciated the ZEZ location and effect upon them. Those attending in April were concerned as to the adequacy or not of the proposed mitigation measures.

We will keep you posted on developments.

A reminder - The meeting on Sustainability in Conservation Areas is TONIGHT, Tuesday 9th April, at LMH, from 7.30pm

Topic: An update on how planning and highways regulations will affect residents who are keen to boost the energy efficiency of their homes and/or install chargers for electric vehicles.

Speakers are Shona Carr and Emma Winder from the City Council Conservation & Heritage team and Paul Gambrell from the County Council Zero Emission Vehicles team.