A French-Columbian scientist, Carlos Moreno first inspired the idea in 2016. The premise of a "15 minute city" is to have facilities in a city accessible in no more than 15 minutes either by walking or cycling. Moreno introduced the 15-minute city concept as a way to ensure that urban residents can fulfill six essential functions within a 15-minute walk or bike from their dwellings: living, working, commerce, healthcare, education and entertainment.

Covid-19 and the climate crisis combined, brought Moreno's idea to to many other nations attention and plans to be implemented in Milan, Madrid, Edinburgh and Seatlle after Covid-19 outbreaks.

Oxford have proposed the "15 minute" strategy. This evoked outrage in many citizens of Oxfordshire. Many residents have seen false Facebook posts and Tweets claiming "The city is going to be cut off and you will need permission to leave your area." However, this is false. Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council describe it as a plan to put “traffic filters” on some main roads, restricting drivers’ access during daytime hours and freeing up space for buses, cyclists and pedestrians. But car owners can apply for daylong permits to bypass the new rules, and many other vehicles are exempt. All parts of the county will remain accessible by car, officials said. The trial is set to start in 2024, and involves traffic filters on six roads.

I spoke to a resident of Oxford briefly and she thinks the situation is "Outrageous." 

"Why should we be controlled like rats in a lab. We are in 2023, we can decide things for ourselves!" The interviewee wishes to remain anonymous, for safety concerns.

However, not everyone thinks it is doom and gloom for Oxford. Many think it will be beneficial for the Climate and the air quality of the city, improving the general health of the public.

Could this plan be implemented in other parts of the Uk? Only time will tell.