Decisions

Delegate authority to the Director of Transport and Infrastructure in consultation with the Head of Legal and Deputy Monitoring Officer to finalise the target cost and programme for Stage 2 (Construction) and issue a Notice to Proceed to Milestone Infrastructure Ltd under the existing NEC 4 Engineering and Construction Contract for the Tramway Accessibility Improvements

The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting.

Officers provided an update on the development of the scheme, noting progress on land and legal agreements, planning applications and procurement strategies.

The Chair noted that bus services would go to Banbury Train Station after these works were finished. Officers confirmed that work with Chiltern Rail was underway to ensure that planned works at the station fit in with the scheme and that a communications plan was jointly developed.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Delegate authority to the Director of Environment & Highways in consultation with the Head of Legal Services and Deputy Monitoring Officer, to approve the entering into a NEC 4 Option C Engineering and Construction Contract for the Tramway Road Accessibility Improvements Project with Milestone Infrastructure for the construction works pursuant to the Pagabo Civil and Infrastructure Framework (Lot 2).

None

Approval sought to commission a new smoking cessation service for Oxfordshire from July 2025

The Cabinet Member is RECOMMENDED to:

a)    Approve the budget for and authorise the Director of Public Health to commence the procurement of a Local Stop Smoking Service, Public Health Service in Oxfordshire.

b)    Delegate authority to the Director of Public Health in consultation with the Head of Legal and Deputy Monitoring Officer and Section 151 Officer, to award and complete the contract for a Local Stop Smoking Service Public Health Service in Oxfordshire as referred to in this report following the conclusion of a procurement exercise pursuant to the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules.

None

Part of Phase 3 Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the high level of consultation responses, with a majority supporting the scheme.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in West Hendred, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the response to the consultation from Cherwell District Council, who raised no objection.

Officers noted the points about the visibility splay of the new development and the Chair asked the parish council to keep in touch with any issues.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve, as advertised:

a) The proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Sibford Ferris,

b) The proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Sibford Gower.

A decision is sought on the proposed 20mph speed limits.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting, responded to their points in turn and introduced the item to the meeting.

Officers confirmed that they believed that the A418 was not suitable for 20mph speed limits.

Officers confirmed that they would brief the local County Councillor about all aspects of the scheme.

Officers questioned whether a deferral may be in order to allow for further briefings and to avoid any ambiguity.

The Chair thanked the officers and speakers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a) Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Tiddington excepting the current proposal for the A418 which is recommended to remain at 30mph.

b) To approve the 20mph speed limits at Milton Common.

To determine speed limits after consideration of any formal consultation responses

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

Officers noted the strong concerns raised by Thames Valley Police, particularly in respect of the B430.

Officers referenced the engagement with the local County Councillor and local parish council.

The Chair references several of the consultation responses.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the introduction of 20mph & 30mph speed limits in Middleton Stoney, as advertised.

This proposal is part of the County wide 20 Mph Speed Limit Project (Phase 3).

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that it was a small scheme and noted the consultation responses.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Souldern, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of the County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this proposal was a clear application of County Council policy.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Horley, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the consultation response from the local County Councillor.

Following a question from the Chair on buffer zones, officers confirmed that it could be done but at further expense and further consultation.

The Chair noted that the local parish council referenced successful schemes from 2021, which proved the success of the scheme.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Little Wittenham, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the high level of response to the consultation, which was welcomed.

The Chair stated that the scheme was designed to improve safety and to shift the balance of modal use.

The Chair referenced several consultation responses.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph and 30mph speed limits in Northmoor, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair raised the point about the visual impact of signage in historic villages, such as Kelmscott. Officers confirmed that discretion was exercised to allow flexibility in this case.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Kelmscott, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the high level of response to the consultation, which was welcomed.

The Chair noted the scheme was two separate schemes.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Shipton-on-Cherwell, as advertised:

a) On the village road at Shipton-on-Cherwell,

b) On the A4095 at Bunkers Hill.

Part of Phase 3 of County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted how the map demonstrated how the policy was being logically applied.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Fernham, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the support from the support from the local parish council and the fact that they wanted more to happen on Standlake Road. The Chair asked officers to note this point.

The Chair made the point that the A415 was outside the scope of this scheme.

Officers confirmed that as part of the Vision Zero Review, speed limits on A and B roads would be reviewed.

The Chair noted the concerns of the bus companies.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Ducklington, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 Countywide 20mph Speed Limits

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

Following a question from the Chair, officers confirmed that Digging Lane was a stretch of road being reduced to 50mph from national speed limit, subject to the recommendations being approved.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph and 50mph speed limits in Fyfield as advertised.

Part of the County-wide 20 Mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that the scheme addressed residential roads within the village.

Following recommendations from the local parish council and the local County Councillor, officers included their requests in the consultation, but felt, having reviewed the character of the road, to not put forward that recommendation.

The Chair noted the cross-party support for this scheme and the high level of responses.

The Chair referenced several consultation responses.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed speed limits in Freeland as advertised, excepting: a) The proposed 30mph speed limit on the A4095.

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Fernham, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of the County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this proposal was a logical extension of County Council policy.

The Chair referenced a consultation response about road markings being ignored and asked officers to pick this up via the ‘School Streets’ policy.

The Chair thanked residents for their engagement and asked them to keep in touch with the County Council about issues in their area.

The Chair picked up a point regarding signage in heritage areas.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in East Hagbourne, as advertised.

To determine speed limits after consideration of any formal consultation responses

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that the scheme was for two non-contiguous roads within Culham.

The Chair referenced the good level of support for the scheme in the consultation responses and noted a point from a local parish councillor about speed limits on the High Street.

The Chair thanked the parish council for their engagement and asked them to keep in touch with the County Council about issues in their area.

The Chair noted that Culham was an area with potential for new developments and that road speed limits would be kept under review.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the introduction of 20mph speed limits in Culham as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the good level of consultation response.

The Chair referenced several consultation responses, which emphasised support for the proposal.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Chadlington, as advertised.

To determine speed limits after consideration of any formal consultation responses

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair specifically noted the objection from the Oxford Bus Company and referenced the written responses.

Officers explained their findings in Annex 4, which timed bus services in Berinsfield to try and quantify the impact of reductions in speed limits. Officers concluded that if the bus was limited to a 20mph speed limit, there would be a negligible impact on the duration of bus services.

The Chair noted that the opinion of bus officers within the County Council is that the reduction in time on the bus services could be accommodated by ‘dwell time’ that is built into services.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the introduction of 20mph speed limits in Berinsfield as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 of Countywide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the standard response from Thames Valley Police.

The Chair referenced a written statement of support from the local County Councillor.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Buscot and 30mph speed limits in Buscot Wick, as advertised.

To seek approval for the introduction of a 20mph speed limit on the Brize Meadow development in Brize Norton.

The promotion of a 20mph speed limit on the Brize Meadow Development, to ensure road safety is maintained

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this was proposal was due to a new development of housing.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in the Brize Meadow Development, as advertised.

Part of Phase 3 County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

The Chair made a series of general comments about the County Council’s 20mph scheme as a whole, including:

·       Welcoming comments from the Secretary of State about the new government’s intention to leave decisions such as these to local authorities.

·       Addressing concerns around cost and confirming this process was about implementation given that the Council had already agreed to the costs.

·       Noting that schemes are brought forward with the support of the parish/town councils and the local County Councillor.

·       Noting the response from Thames Valley Police about enforcement.

·       Referencing the responses from the bus companies about the ‘cumulative effect’ on their services.

·       Noting that consultation responses were the decision of people who wished to respond or not.

The Chair noted the good level of consultation response, which was welcomed.

The Chair invited local residents to stay in touch with the County Council with particular issues in their local area.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Appleford-on Thames, as advertised.

Part of County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair invited local residents to stay in touch with the County Council with particular issues in their local area.

The Chair noted the response from the bus companies highlighting that a lower speed limit would make it easier to walk to bus stops.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limits in Appleton & Eaton, as advertised.

To seek approval for the extension of an existing 30mpg speed limit on the A44 Manor Road, Woodstock.

Extension of the existing 30mph speed limit on the A44 Manor Road to be extended beyond the proposed right turning lane for the site access is to maintain the 30mph speed beyond the proposed site access for pedestrian and vehicle safety

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

Officers confirmed that the road conditions meant that a 30mph speed limit would be suitable, rather than a 20mph speed limit.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)     Approve the extension of the existing 30mph speed limit on the A44 Manor Road in Woodstock, as advertised.

Part of County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this was deferred initially as the local County Councillor asked for additional 20mph speed limit zones, and that officers had brought this back with a recommendation amending the 20mph zones, with the exception of the two outlined in recommendation a) and b).

The Chair noted the response at Annex 3 from the bus companies and objections relating to the overall policy.

The Chair felt this was a suitable compromise in assessing the needs of the bus companies and complying with County Council policy.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the introduction of the amended 20mph speed limits in Wallingford, as advertised excepting:

a)  Castle Street – terminal point to be 120 metres south of its junction with the access to Wallingford Cemetery

a)    Hithercroft Road – terminal point to be 35 metres west of its junction with Borough Avenue.

To seek approval for minor changes to permit eligibility for canal moorings in the Upper Wolvercote CPZ

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted the support in the consultation for the proposals.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the following proposals in respect of eligibility for parking permits within the Upper Wolvercote Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ) within Oxford, as advertised:

a)     Allow all boats at the ‘Agenda 21’ residential moorings to be eligible to apply for resident's parking permits and residents' visitors' parking permits.

Cllr Andrew Gant returned to the meeting and assumed the Chair for the remainder of the meeting.

Part of County-wide 20mph Speed Limit Project

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that the principal objection was from the Oxford Bus Company, which officers confirmed, in part, was the reason for the 4 exceptions in the recommendations, alongside considering road environments.

Officers emphasised the need to balance objectives, through the delivery of the County Council’s 20mph schemes and to encourage the use of bus travel.

The Chair stated that evidence was required from the bus companies to prove the cumulative effect on their services.

Officers noted that Lord Williams School was well connected to active travel routes.

The Chair referred to consultation responses in the report, including from the bus companies, active travel groups, local residents and students at local schools. The Chair particularly praised youth engagement in the consultation responses.

The Chair noted the support of Thame Town Council.

The Chair asked officers to take away the point surrounding reducing the areas cars can go and increasing pedestrian activity as part of wider thinking in relation to Oxfordshire’s market towns.

The Chair made it clear that he felt there was not sufficient evidence to not introduce 20mph speed limits at recommendation c) and d), and thus, he did not approve those two recommendations.

The Chair thanked officers and approved recommendations a) and b) but did not approve recommendations c) and d) in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the introduction of the amended 20mph speed limits in Thame as advertised excepting for the following roads:

a)    B4445 Aylesbury Road – terminal point to be 60 metres north of its roundabout junction with Bell Lane & the B4445 North Street,

b)    B4445 Chinnor Road – terminal point to be 25 metres southeast of its junction with Cotmore Gardens.

The Chair did not approve recommendation c) or recommendation d).

c)    Kingsey Road - terminal point to be 40 metres east of its junction with Kings Road,

d)    Oxford Road - terminal point to be 15 metres southwest of its junction with Fish Ponds Lane.

Officers have worked with the Parish Council and local county councillor to develop a scheme to better manage the parking bays in the centre of the village with an aim of reducing commuter parking, whilst retaining flexibility for residents and their visitors.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

Officers noted a slight change in respect of recommendation (b) in the report, which would be slightly amended to include ‘Church Walk’ if the recommendations were approved.

Officers pointed out that enforcement of obstruction was a Police matter.

The Chair noted that consultation responses reflected local debate and that it was good to see local engagement.

Officers confirmed that reviews could be undertaken post-implementation to ensure mitigation could be put in place if required.

Officers noted that there were some responses that came in after the period of consultation had ended and raised similar issues to those outlined in the report. The Chair thanked officers and accepted their judgement.

The Chair thanked officers for their work, speakers for their contributions and agreed to the recommendations as amended.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the introduction of parking controls in Shrivenham as follows:

a)    The introduction of no waiting at any time restrictions on sections of High Street, Manor Lane, Church Walk and Hazell’s Lane.

b)    The introduction of parking places on High Street and Church Walk, for permit holders or 3-hour maximum stay for non-permit holders during the hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

c)    To retain disabled persons parking places on High Street adjacent to No.50 and in front of Elm Tree Surgery.

d)    To remove existing in[1]carriageway cycle parking east of Elm Tree House, to be replaced with a Disabled persons parking place.

e)    The introduction of a new Disabled persons parking places adjacent to No. 50b and No.33.

Cllr Andrew Gant left the meeting for the duration of Item 13. Cllr Judy Roberts assumed the Chair for Item 13.

To seek approval for the introduction of a new 40mph limit.

The introduction of a 40mph limit is being promoted on the A422 Hennef Way, Banbury as part of the DfT United States Visiting Forces road safety initiative. The objective is to improve road safety by reducing speeds and the risk of collisions at junctions.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this was part of a government initiative to improve safety outside RAF bases, following tragic incidents in previous years.

Officers noted safety concerns surrounding the Concorde Avenue roundabout, which has had significant collisions history.

The Chair noted the response which had no objection from Stagecoach Bus Company.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the introduction of a 40mph speed limit in place of the existing 50mph limit on the A422 Hennef Way in Banbury, as advertised.

To seek approval for the introduction of a new 40mph limit.

A 40mph limit is being promoted as part of the DfT United States Visiting Forces road safety initiative. This is required in order to improve road safety by reducing traffic speeds between Bodicote and Adderbury

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this was part of a government initiative to improve safety outside RAF bases, following tragic incidents in previous years.

The Chair noted concerns from Oxford Bus Company in the consultation responses.

Officers confirmed there was a well-used footpath alongside the road in question and further stated that there was a brief to look at roads that could be used by American drivers into towns, such as Banbury.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the introduction of a 40mph speed limit on the A4260 Banbury Road between Adderbury and Bodicote, as advertised.

To reconsider strategic route speed limits following local concerns to original proposals

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

Officers noted points surrounding the coherence of having a small stretch of 20mph speed limits outside of the school mentioned in addresses by speakers.

The Chair clarified with officers that recommendations a) to d) were designed to address concerns on the ‘through-routes’ raised when the scheme was deferred at the Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management meeting in January 2024.

Officers noted that the recommended length of speed limits was 300 metres, but that there were some exceptions and that if 20mph speed limits were to be introduced on an ‘A’ road, signage would have to be illuminated.

There were discussions between officers about the implications of cost in delivering the set policies of the County Council and it was felt that local expertise from the local County Councillor would be useful in making judgments on this specific point.

The Chair noted that the proposal had to be introduced in a holistic way to link in with other policies put forward by the County Council.

The Chair referenced the change in Welsh government guidance on 20mph schemes to involve local authorities as vindication of the scheme working well in Oxfordshire with the involvement of local County Councillors and parish/town councils.

The Chair asked for officers to keep recommendation f) closely under review and to liaise with the school.

The Chair thanked speakers for their contributions, thanked officers for their work and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the introduction of 20mph speed limits in Banbury as advertised with the exception of the lengths of roads set out below:

a)     The A361 North Bar Street, Horsefair and South Bar Street between their junctions with the B4100 Warwick Road and A361 Bloxham Road,

b)    The A4260 Upper Windsor Street, Windsor Street and Cherwell Street between their junctions with Swan Close Road and Bridge Street,

c)     Castle Street and Cherwell Drive between their junctions with the A361 North Bar Street and the A4260 Concorde Avenue,

d)     Hightown Road and Swan Close Road between their junctions with Bankside and the A4260 Upper Windsor Street,

e)     A361 Bloxham Road – the 40m length immediately southwest of its junction with the A361 South Bar Street,

f)      A361 Southam Road – the 260m length immediately north of its junction with the B4100 Warwick Road,

g)     A4260 Concorde Avenue – the 65m length immediately north of its junction with Bridge Street,

h)     B4100 Oxford Road – the 190m length immediately south of its junction with A361 South Bar Street,

i)       Bankside – the 30m length immediately east of its junction with Hightown Road,

j)       Bridge Street – the 125m length immediately east of its junction with the A4260 Upper Windsor Street.

To seek approval for the introduction of a raised zebra crossing and associated traffic calming.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

Officers commented on the balance between loss of vegetation versus safety and visibility.

The Chair noted support from the consultation responses, acknowledging that the scheme intended to improve the safety of children.

The Chair thanked speakers and officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)     Approve the construction on Sandy Lane West, Oxford the following measures, as advertised:

b)     A Humped Zebra crossing west of its junction with Broadfields

c)     Raised Side Road Entry Treatments (SRETs) across its junctions with Broadfields, Costar Close and Spring Lane.

d)    Round top road humps at the following locations –

1. 19m* southwest of the western kerb-line of Blackbird Leys Road,

2..15m* northeast of the centre of its junction with Costar Close,

3. 55m* east of the centre of its junction with Spring Lane,

4.20m* west of the centre of its junction with Spring Lane, and

5.25m* west of its junction with Bampton Close.

*Approximate dimensions

To seek approval for the introduction of waiting restrictions associated with a s278 agreement.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

Officers noted the safety concerns relating to the visibility and stated that the developer was asked to complete a Road Safety Audit, which shared similar concerns over safety.

The Chair thanked officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the following parking restrictions on Elms Road in Thame, as advertised:

a)    Formalise & extend the existing double yellow lines on the north side of the carriageway, from a point 25 metres northwest of the centre of the access junction to the Rectory residential development, south eastwards for a distance of approx. 58 metres, and

b)    Formalise the existing double yellow lines on the south side of the carriageway, from a point 24 metres northwest of the centre of the access junction to the Rectory residential development, south eastwards for a distance of approx. 45 metres.

There have been motorcyclists fatalities at this road junction due to right turn from the A4074 southbound into the lane. This is a Vision Zero Road Safety Scheme designed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

The Chair reflected upon fatalities that have occurred during past incidents involving this road and noted how dangerous the road being open was.

The Chair thanked the speaker for their powerful contribution, thanked officers for their work and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)     Approve the introduction of a prohibition of motor vehicles restriction at the southern end of the connecting lane (known as Henley Road) between the A4074 and B4015 within Clifton Hampden parish, as advertised.

On completion of Westgate development, taxis and PHVs were originally not allowed in the bus link. Following lobbying by COLTA, an ETRO was agreed to allow HCVs and PHVs to use the bus link (without pick up/drop) off 7am-7pm. This was subsequently made permanent. COLTA have continued to lobby to allow access 24 hours a day. Cabinet Member is keen for us to consult on this proposal (permanent TRO).

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

Officers confirmed that this proposal was an extension of the experiment from 7am to 7pm which then became permanent, which allowed Taxi’s and Private Hire Vehicles to use the Westgate Bus Link as a through road.

Officers confirmed that the proposal, if approved, would be monitored to ensure any issues were addressed.

The Chair confirmed with officers that dropping off and picking up was not permitted.

The Chair noted that he felt Taxi’s were part of the solution to car traffic in Oxford and as part of the public transport offer.

The Chair referenced the objections from bus companies surrounding enforcement.

The Chair noted the support from the local Oxford City Councillor for Hinksey Park.

The Chair thanked speakers and officers and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)     Approve the removal of the existing ‘Prohibition of Motor Vehicles’ restriction on Hackney Carriage Vehicles (HCVs) & Licensed Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) in & around the Westgate shopping centre in Oxford, as advertised.

To seek approval to make changes to the outbound mandatory cycle lane on the Botley Road, Oxford.

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

The Chair noted that Oxford was within the County Council’s 20mph policy but had been affected by Network Rail’s changing timetable with regards to the Botley Road.

The Chair stated that he shared the ambition of wanting to do more but noted that individual schemes were restricted by time and funding.

Officers pointed out that the existing mandatory cycle lane was not of desirable width as per guidance of minimum standards, and thus an advisory lane was the option put forward.

The Chair noted that this scheme was an interim step and that improvements would come forward in the context of the traffic filters and Network Rail’s work finishing

The Chair thanked officers for their work and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the removal of the mandatory cycle lane on the southern side of the A420 Botley Road and its replacement with a new wider ‘advisory’ cycle lane, as advertised.

To seek approval for the introduction of traffic calming measures on the B4027 Wheatley Road, Islip

Proposals are being brought forward for speed cushions on the B4027 Wheatley Road, Islip in order to reduce traffic speeds and reinforce the 20mph speed limit on the approach to the new traffic signals that are being installed on Islip Bridge

The Chair invited speakers to address the meeting and responded to their points in turn.

Officers stated that they reflected on a number of considerations on the optimum measures to introduce, noting that in the previous scheme, speed humps had been introduced but were not in compliance with regulations.

Following a question from the Chair, officers confirmed that vegetation works were planned as part of the scheme.

The Chair thanked officers and approved the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the construction of a full-width road hump on the B4027 Station Road in Islip, as advertised.

Decision is required on the proposed use of ANPR Cameras to enforce the Phase 2 School Streets.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting, invited speakers to make their addresses and responded to their points in turn.

The Chair noted the involvement in the development of these schemes by local County Councillors in their own local areas.

The Chair asked officers about reasons for not considering ‘volunteer-led trials’ as pointed out by public speakers. Officers stated that they would take that away and look into it.

Officers pointed out that they were in the midst of commissioning a review of all schools in Oxfordshire to assess them for suitability for School Streets or other schemes. The Chair asked if this would include private schools and officers confirmed this point.

The Chair reflected that travel choices were not only about safety, but also about health and educational attainment.

Officers confirmed that additional streets being added to the schemes was under consideration.

The Chair noted that one of the advantages of active travel methods was to more accurately predict travel times.

The Chair thanked speakers for their contributions, praised officers for their work and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the proposal for 'Automatic Number Plate Recognition' (ANPR) cameras to enforce the current five experimental phase 2 school streets in Oxford and Didcot at the following schools:

i)               St Mary and St John Church of England Primary School, Oxford,

ii)             Sandhills Community Primary School, Oxford,

iii)           Tyndale Community (Primary) School, Oxford,

iv)            New Hinksey Church of England Primary School, Oxford, and

v)              Manor Primary School, Didcot.

Redbridge HWRC Site lease needs to be renewed with Oxford City Council. Decision required to approve the new lease

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this proposal was part of a refurbishment programme and that Redbridge HWRC was used regularly.

The Chair thanked officers for their work and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a) Approve the new Redbridge Household Waste & Recycling Centre (HWRC) lease terms and costs as negotiated with Oxford City Council.

b) Delegate to Director of Environment and Highways to finalise and enter into the lease.

The proposal is for a new OCC Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) Drainage and minor ground works framework. It will enable OCC to directly undertake work relating to drainage and minor ground works to reduce flood risk for communities and residents. The framework is proposed to run for an initial period of 2 years, with an option to extend for a further 2 years. The framework is for the provision of the following works across the whole of Oxfordshire on a “call-off” basis. Works will be on OCC own land and assets and (by agreement) third party land. Types of work: Lot 1) minor ground works, such as: ditch and pond creation, reinstatement and maintenance; small flood embankment construction; swale construction; infiltration device installation; and vegetation management. Lot 2) Culvert and small bridge works, such as: removal, replacement, alteration and repair. Lot 3) Culvert and drainage pipe maintenance, surveying, jetting/clearance. It is proposed the framework will have a total value of up to £500k per year, subject to LLFA funding. The framework will complement the current OCC Highways Term contract that is due for renewal in 2025. It is proposed the framework will also be available for use by the district and city councils within Oxfordshire.

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

The Chair noted that this would allow the County Council, as the flood authority, to react faster and reflected further that it was a good example of joined-up working between different Councils and stakeholders.

The Chair thanked officers and approved the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

a) Approve the development and subsequent procurement of a new Lead Local Flood Authority drainage and minor groundworks framework contract.

b) Delegate the contract award and any contract extension award to Director of Environment and Highways.

Approve business case to commission a new service as current contract ends on 31/07/25.

The Cabinet Member is RECOMMENDED to

a)    Approve the budget for and authorise the Director of Public Health and Communities to commence the procurement of an Oral Health Service in Oxfordshire; and

b)    Delegate authority to the Director of Public Health  and Communities in consultation with the Head of Legal and Deputy Monitoring Officer and Section 151 Officer, to award and complete the contract for an Oral Health Service in Oxfordshire as referred to in this report following the conclusion of a procurement exercise pursuant to the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules.

The minutes of the meeting held on 9 July 2024 were approved.

Congratulations to Oxfordshire students who have recently received their results for A levels, GCSEs and other specialist qualifications.  Our thanks go to all the teachers, schools and settings who have made it possible for students to achieve their goals.

This year we have also seen encouraging and improved outcomes in results for students with Special Educational Needs.

Among young people for whom the Council is a Corporate Parent, we have had four university graduates, two with first class degrees and one graduate from the University of Oxford as well as nine new starters at universities this month. Our care experienced children have done better than ever at GSCE and A level.  Congratulations to all of them.

We have learned of the passing in August of former Councillor Teresa Smith.  She was first elected as the Labour Member for the then Oxford South Division in 1985 with a majority of 679 votes, returned again in 1989, and stood down ahead of the 1993 elections.  Our thoughts are with her family and friends.

Save the dates:

Monday 16^th December 2024 Carol Service with the Bishop of Dorchester, 6.30pm at St Michael’s Church Abingdon

Friday 10^th January 2025 Chair’s charity civic dinner, 7pm in Oxford.

The following events were attended by the Chair of Council since the July Council meeting:

10/07/2024   Europa School Leavers Ceremony - Culham

11/07/2024   Earth Trust Rose Planting - Long Wittenham

12/07/2024   British Empire Medal Presentation - Oxford

13/07/2024   Youth Concert St Edmunds School - Oxford

15/07/204     Oxfordshire Association of Local Councils AGM at County Hall – Oxford

20/07/2024   Wantage Fire Station - Wantage

10/08/2024   Banbury Fire Station - Banbury

17/08/2024   Mayors Charity Lunch - Bicester

18/08/2024   Chair OCC Chairty afternoon tea at the Earth Trust - Long Wittenham

30/08/2024   Bullingdon Prison groundbreaking ceremony    Bullingdon prison

6/09/2024     Vale of White Horse DC Chair’s charity event - Faringdon

08/09/2024   Battle of Britain Mayor’s civic service – Carterton

Council approved the following change to the membership of the Audit & Governance Committee:  Councillor Hicks to replace Councillor Baines

Council noted changes to committee membership given effect by the Monitoring Officer on 21 August 2024 under the delegated authority set out in the Constitution under Part 7.2, section 6.4 (l) using the functions under Section 16(1) and Section 16(2) of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 to give effect to the wishes of the political groups as regards membership of scrutiny committees and committees of the Council:

Pension Fund Committee - Councillor Stevens to fill the vacancy

Audit & Governance Committee - Councillor Johnston replaced Councillor Hanna.

Council noted the report.

Recommendations in the exempt report approved with 34 votes in favour, 13 against and 3 abstentions.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The amendment by Councillor Reeves was accepted by the proposer.

The motion as amended was carried with 50 in favour; 0 against and 1 abstention.

In September 2023, Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission declared their judgment post inspection that the Local Area Partnership (LAP) had multiple systemic failures.

Despite the Priority Action Plan (PAP), the Council is failing to meaningfully engage with elected members on a cross-party basis or and capture the voice of families affected and the user, our young people.

Council calls on Cabinet to consider;

1. More Mmeaningfully involveing young people and youth organisations throughout all policy-making processes within SEND improvement and the PAP. Co-management and co-creation structures are the best way to ensure direct participation.

2. Any consultations or engagement with young people by this council must have a visible public follow-up to the outcomes and tangible metrics to ensure outcomes are delivered.

3. All Council policies and frameworks that affect young people, must include an impact assessment, and ensure there are that reasonable mitigation measures are put in place for those youth groups that might be negatively impacted by a new policy or framework.

4. Ensuring that where appropriate all future events, in person/online, run by or funded by OCC, especially those related to the PAP, LAP, and SEND improvement, are open to all appropriate young people with the attendance of their parent or carer.

5. Launching a rapid task force for the voice of the young person and SEND users, and task them to create a framework for a Youth Forum within 3 three months of this meeting date.

6. The leader to appoint a SEND Champion from an opposition group to enable seldom heard that a wider range of voices in the SEND community to are able to feed into SEND improvement and services, and that such person to sits on the SEND Improvement board.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The amendment by Councillor Baines was lost with 14 votes in favour; 35 against and 0 abstentions.

The motion was lost with 22 votes in favour; 28 against and 0 abstentions.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The time being close to 3.30 pm, this Motion was considered dropped in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 5.2.

The motion was carried with 37 votes in favour; 14 against and 0 abstentions.