Drivers face daily tax in major city as new Congestion Charge plans progress - 'Must reduce traffic!'

The council's cabinet approved the consultation following a meeting attended by business representatives, bus companies and cycling organisations.

The charge would apply to cars passing through six locations across the city between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

Andrew Gant, the council's transport chief, said he was: "Looking forward to hearing what residents, businesses and visitors have to say about the proposal". "We must do all we can to improve bus services and reduce overall traffic, to help people get around," he added.

Unlike traditional Congestion Charges that restrict access to entire zones, Oxford's scheme would only charge drivers passing through specific camera points at Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clements Street, Thames Street, Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way.

The temporary charge would use Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology originally intended for the council's delayed traffic filter programme.

Drivers could avoid charges by taking alternative routes to four of the six locations, though accessing central car parks at Westgate, Oxpens, Worcester Street, and the railway station - which would require payment.

The £5 fee would cover all six locations for an entire day, with charges applying year-round, including bank holidays. Payment would be required online or by phone by midnight the following day.

The scheme aims to reduce traffic congestion with the council explaining that the Congestion Charge would see a 20 per cent reduction in city centre traffic.

The council has committed to achieving a 10 per cent improvement in bus productivity by the end of 2025, with the temporary charge seen as essential to meeting this target.

Bus journey times on Abingdon Road have already increased by up to 17 per cent following Botley Road's closure. Additional objectives include making walking and cycling safer, reducing local air pollution, and improving community health and wellbeing.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• Nissan to bring electric car manufacturing of popular model to UK’s largest car plant - 'Built in Britain!'
• Motorists face massive blow as Dartford Crossing increases fees by 40% for first time in 11 years
• M23 chaos: Drivers told to expect delays as major motorway closes near Gatwick Airport due to overrun roadworks

The scheme would also help community health workers, carers and traders travel more easily by reducing overall traffic volumes.

Permits would be available free of charge for various groups, including Blue Badge holders, community health and care workers, carers and mobile traders.

Under the proposals, residents in a newly created central permit area would receive unlimited free travel throughout the charge locations, while those in the wider Oxford permit area would get 100 day passes annually.

Oxfordshire residents outside Oxford would also receive 25 day passes per year. Each day that passes would allow unlimited travel through all six locations on that day. Commuters with workplace parking in the central area would also qualify for permits.

All vehicles except cars would be automatically exempt, with vans and Heavy Goods Vehicles able to pass without charge. Electric cars would not receive exemptions, as the scheme aims to reduce overall car journeys regardless of vehicle type.

If approved following consultation, the scheme would operate for a maximum of two years until the traffic filters trial can begin once Botley Road reopens, expected in August 2026.

Revenue generated would cover operational costs, the council explained, with any surplus funding being used for discounted park and ride services, reduced bus fares and improved bus routes.

The temporary charge would operate independently from Oxford's existing Zero Emission Zone, with drivers potentially paying both charges if travelling through affected areas.