Local News · Oxford

Oxford traffic filter trial set to begin on 28 September

By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published

Illustrative stock photograph; not a verified image of the reported event or person
Illustrative stock image (Pexels); not a verified photograph of the people, place or event reported.

Oxfordshire County Council is replacing its temporary congestion charge with a new traffic filter trial, significantly changing access requirements for motorists in the city.

Drivers travelling to Oxford face a major change to city centre access later this month as Oxfordshire County Council prepares to launch a new traffic filter trial on Monday, 28 September.

The scheme replaces the existing temporary congestion charge. While the six locations for the filters remain the same, the trial removes the option for car drivers to pay a £5 fee to pass through the monitored zones. Instead, the system will rely entirely on a permit scheme.

Councillor Gareth Epps, the council's Cabinet Member for Transport Management, confirmed the move follows observations of changing travel habits during the temporary charge period. He noted that the authority has seen strong growth in the use of park and ride facilities and increased bus patronage, which the council hopes to build upon to address long-standing congestion issues.

For those who frequently drive into the city, the council has provided the following guidance:

Existing permits: Motorists currently holding a temporary congestion charge permit do not need to take any action, as these will be automatically transferred to the new system.

New applications: Drivers who do not currently hold a permit can apply for one via the Oxfordshire County Council website.

Day passes: Residents living within the Oxford permit area remain eligible for 100 free day passes annually, while those in the wider Oxfordshire permit area are eligible for 25 free day passes per year.

Officials highlighted that with Botley Road remaining open, all areas of the city remain accessible to motorists. However, the council advises drivers to plan ahead, as some journeys may require alternative routes to avoid the restricted filter zones.

The council is launching a six-month public consultation alongside the trial to gather feedback from residents, local organisations and businesses. The results of this feedback will be used to shape the authority's long-term transport strategy for the city.

Source: Oxfordshire County Council · View original