Minute 126 Connecting Oxford: Councillor Gant sought clarification on the detail of the Cabinet discussions on possible exemptions (6^th bullet point) and also the locations of the bus gates and the extent to which they might vary from the map.  Councillor Hollingsworth explained that there would always be compelling cases for exemption from individual areas or groups but that these had to be taken in the context of their impact on the overall scheme. He confirmed that the timing and exact positioning of bus gates was open for discussion but could not be varied to any great extent before impacting their effectiveness as a tool for traffic reduction.

Councillor Gant suggested that consideration should be given to extending the Work Place Parking Levy to include other sites across the whole city.  Councillor Hollingsworth endorsed that suggestion and went on to confirm that the Cabinet minutes reflected the difference of opinion between the cabinets of the City and County councils.

Councillor Hollingsworth, in response to a question from Councillor Roz Smith, confirmed that the Urban Design and Conservation officers were kept fully aware of the Connecting Oxford proposals but undertook to discuss the matter specifically with the Heritage Officer. Finally he made it clear that the success of Connecting Oxford depended on the simultaneous implementation of bus gates and revised bus services.

Councillors Lygo and Pressel left the meeting at the end of this item.