PICTURE the scene: diners at restaurants in the centre of Oxford spilling out onto tables and chairs on the pavements as cyclists glide by in streets empty of cars as the sun goes down.

It's the kind of Oxford that many have dreamed of for decades – a more 'European' style city centre, as proponents often like to tell us.

Now it seems like it might finally be within their grasp.

Indeed, it's more than just a realistic proposition: this pedestrianised city centre is increasingly seemingly like the only option for Oxford to get out of lockdown and for businesses to get back to business.

A critic might say it is pedestrianisation by the back door – and with the year-long row over Walton Street still dividing the residents, we know exactly what that can do to a community.

The city council, in issuing the results of its survey (with businesses overwhelmingly in favour of its plans), has diligently shared just a few of the slight concerns about its proposals.

We know there will be many more concerned residents and business owners out there.

Get in touch and tell us how you feel about the plans: news@nqo.com