Innovative changes lead to improved abandoned vehicle removal in Oxford

A partnership between ODS, Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has revolutionised the removal of untaxed vehicles from the city’s roads, resulting in a faster, more efficient process and a safer local environment.  

Since September 2023, ODS has been responsible for removing untaxed vehicles across Oxford, enabling swift action to clear them from public roads. The early identification and removal of these vehicles - many of which are at risk of becoming abandoned - has helped to prevent criminal damage and ensure that vehicles are less likely to attract antisocial behaviour.  

Once removed, vehicles are stored securely in a dedicated pound until they are reclaimed by their owners or authorised for destruction by the DVLA. All unclaimed vehicles receive a Certificate of Destruction and are responsibly dismantled for parts. ODS’s removal contractor is an authorised treatment facility, ensuring that the disposal process is environmentally friendly and fully compliant with legal requirements.  

Empowering councils with devolved powers 

Councils across the UK can join the DVLA’s devolved powers program, as ODS has done. This partnership has aimed to reduce incidents of arson and criminal activity associated with abandoned vehicles, ultimately enhancing the quality of local environments. 

ODS’s powers also include the authority to immediately remove stolen mopeds running on false plates, providing a more robust response to vehicle-related crimes.  

“Abandoned vehicles are a blight on our roads. More than that, they can be dangerous and attract criminal behaviour. These operational improvements highlight our commitment to efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and prompt service delivery, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for the residents of Oxfordshire.” 
Cllr Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies  

"This partnership has not only increased efficiency but also significantly enhanced the safety and cleanliness of our streets. By streamlining the process and eliminating unnecessary costs, we’re proud to contribute to a safer, more vibrant community for all residents in Oxfordshire". 
Stuart Grisbrooke. ODS Abandoned Vehicle Officer 

Streamlined processes yield improved results 

The improved vehicle removal process begins with advisory notices placed on vehicles. If the vehicle remains on the road after two weeks, a formal removal notice is issued. 

ODS’s streamlined digital system has replaced cumbersome paperwork, significantly increasing efficiency and speeding up vehicle removals. This new approach has resulted in substantial cost savings and quicker removal times. 

Since the partnership with the DVLA went live in 2023, ODS has removed 88 untaxed vehicles from public roads and council land, compared to 76 in 2022.  

For more information, visit the Report an Abandoned Vehicle webpage or contact ODS Streetscene at 01865 249811.