Oxfordshire Council Nears £5 Daily Oxford Congestion Charge Implementation

Oxford is considering implementing a temporary £5 daily congestion charge in six key areas to reduce traffic congestion, improve bus services, and enhance air quality, with plans potentially launching in Autumn 2025 following a public consultation. The charge would apply between 7am and 7pm daily and use camera-operated Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology, targeting through traffic while allowing access to most destinations by alternative routes. The scheme has sparked significant debate, with supporters emphasizing environmental benefits and improved urban mobility, while opponents argue it unfairly burdens drivers, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis and for those reliant on cars due to inadequate public transport. Some councillors and residents have called for tiered charges based on vehicle size, citing larger vehicles as causing more congestion and pollution. Businesses and local groups are divided, with some fearing economic harm and others backing the initiative for its potential to reduce congestion and promote active travel. Oxfordshire County Council underscores the plan as a temporary measure until traffic filters can be installed in 2026, aiming to manage traffic more effectively in the historic city.