CYCLING on two of Oxford’s pedestrianised main shopping streets is still not allowed, despite the end of a ban which meant cyclists could be fined.

A public space protection order to prevent cycling on Cornmarket Street and Queen Street between 10am and 6pm expired in January.

But according to Nigel Chapman, Oxford City Council’s cabinet member for safer communities and customer focused services, cycling is still not allowed on the two streets.

In response to a written question from Councillor Stephen Goddard about whether the PSPO should be renewed, Mr Chapman said a ban was still in place.

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This is because of a Traffic Management Order by the county council.

The response said: “The Cabinet Member is very aware of the expiry of the City Centre PSPO, details of which can be found on the City Council’s website.

“Oxfordshire County Council’s Traffic Management Order governing cycling is still in place in Queen Street and Cornmarket Street.

“The County Council remains responsbile for enforcement.”

It is also enforced by members of staff from Oxford City Council, who regularly stop members of the public trying to cycle down the streets, which are often crowded with shoppers during the day time.

Speaking at Oxford City Council’s meeting on Monday, Mr Chapman said: “The rules are still in place. I have had these conversations with cyclists myself.”

He added there were concerns about the signs which told cyclists to dismount from their bikes and described it as ‘not very clear.’

The PSPO meant that anyone caught cycling on Cornmarket Street or Queen Street could have been handed a £100 on-the-spot fine.