Oxford ZEZ: Air pollution down by up to 18% as traffic falls

This revelation is part of a report released by the county council, which analyses data from before and after the zone's introduction in a small area of the city in February 2022.

Together, Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council launched the pilot to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and promote zero emission travel in the city.

Now, the results of this pilot are shaping proposals for a larger ZEZ scheme in Oxford.

Judy Roberts (Image: Oxfordshire County Council)

Councillor Judy Roberts, county council cabinet member for infrastructure and development strategy, said: "The zero emission zone pilot has had a positive impact in a small area of the city centre.

"We can apply our learning from the pilot when we now start to look at expanding that area in future and bringing the benefits of cleaner air and less traffic to more residents and businesses."

The report reveals air pollution levels dropped by 12 per cent on New Inn Hall Street, 14 per cent on Cornmarket Street, and 18 per cent on St Michael's Street in 2022.

This compares to an 8 per cent average reduction across Oxford in the same year.

Overall vehicle movements in the zone fell by roughly 28 per cent during the 7am to 7pm operating hours.

In its first operational financial year, the scheme generated £702,940.

This will fund ZEZ's development and operation and support the county and city councils' transport objectives.