Drivers could be hit with £5 daily fee under new congestion charge plans in popular UK city

The charge would target motorists driving through six key routes without permits during specified hours, as the council seeks short-term solutions to ease worsening traffic congestion.

The temporary measure comes after the council's original traffic filter plans, which were initially scheduled for August 2023.

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However, proposals were delayed due to the ongoing closure of Botley Road. Network Rail has indicated the road will not reopen until August 2026.

The proposed charging system would operate between 7am and 7pm on Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, Thames Street and St Clement's Street every day, including bank holidays.

Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way would face more limited charging hours, from 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm, Monday to Saturday.

Automatic number plate recognition cameras would enforce the scheme at each location, with traffic signs marking the charging points.

Only cars without permits would pay the £5 daily fee, whilst all other vehicles would be exempt from the new charges.

The temporary congestion charge would remain in place until Botley Road reopens and permanent traffic filters are implemented.

Under the traffic filter system, motorists without permits would face £70 fines for driving through filters, reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.

Councillor Andrew Gant, cabinet member for transport management, described the proposal as "a recognition that [the traffic filter trial] has been delayed to levels that have been out of control, and that congestion has continued to get worse".

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He added: "What you would get from this scheme if it is approved, is less congestion, far greater amenity for those who are exempt, much better buses and potentially cheaper park and ride fares."

The councillor, who represents Wolvercote and Cutteslowe for the Liberal Democrats, said: "It is addressing a problem with a really practical solution."

Permits for the congestion charge would mirror those planned for traffic filters, including Blue Badge holders, unpaid carers, businesses needing to transport goods or equipment, and emergency vehicles.

A new permit category would specifically address the temporary charge, available to residents who must drive through charging locations, along with their visitors and those commuting to affected areas for work.

The council plans to use revenue from the scheme to cover setup and operating costs, in addition to cheaper bus tickets and reduced fares at park and ride sites.

If the congestion charge plans are approved, a six-week public consultation will begin on June 23.

Oxfordshire County Council could be looking to replicate the success of London's Congestion Charge, which was first introduced in 2003.

Plans for Oxford's congestion charge would also work alongside the Zero Emission Zone, which operates in the centre of the city. Ultra-low emission vehicles pay £2, while low emission vehicles pay £4. All other vehicles are charged £10 a day.