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Oxford’s Temporary Congestion Charge Faces Pushback as Councillors Weigh Repeal Motion

Councillors heard emotional testimony ahead of an afternoon debate on a motion to scrap the £5 scheme.

Overview

  • Drivers without permits are charged £5 per day for passing any of six camera points at Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clement’s Street, Thames Street, Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way.
  • Speakers including an 11-year-old pupil urged councillors to end the policy, with a formal motion to axe the charge scheduled for debate today.
  • Bus operators reported slightly higher passenger numbers and crowding at park-and-ride sites, prompting extra buses, manual control of signals on Abingdon Road and timetable changes slated for November 9.
  • The levy has raised out-of-pocket costs for visitors, with one hour at Worcester Street now £10.80 if a charging point is crossed, and Oxpens at £9.60 for an hour.
  • The rollout includes three months of free park-and-ride bus travel with a £2.50 site ticket, warning letters for first-time offenders during the first six weeks, and free permits for residents, traders, carers and Blue Badge holders.