Changes to proposals to tackle congestion in Oxford published ahead of decision
Free park and ride journeys and additional free permit types have been added to the proposal for a temporary congestion charge in Oxford, which will be discussed by Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet on 10 September.
The changes, based on consultation feedback, will be reviewed by the council’s Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 27 August alongside consultation reports, technical reports and other information. A decision on whether to implement the scheme will then be made by the council’s cabinet.
The scheme aims to reduce traffic in the short term, while Botley Road remains closed preventing the start of the traffic filter trial, contributing towards creating a healthier, more accessible and attractive city. It is designed to improve bus services and make it easier for those with permits, including carers, traders and blue badge holders, to travel by car into and around Oxford, and improve air quality in the city.
Cllr Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “We are very grateful to the thousands of people who have taken the time to respond and give us their detailed views on this important proposal for Oxford.
“Our officers have been carefully working through and considering those responses. All of this information along with officers recommendations will be presented to the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting in the last week of August. That committee will fully debate the subject and make its own thoughts and recommendations clear to the council’s cabinet. A decision will then be taken at cabinet on 10 September. I look forward to reviewing all of the information that will be presented that day and debating this matter with cabinet colleagues.”
A six-week consultation took place on the proposals from 23 June to 3 August this year. The survey received 7,165 responses. Responses and feedback have helped shape the proposals now being presented.
In answer to survey questions, 66 per cent of people said there shouldn’t be a charge at all, 7.7 per cent thought that the charge was too high and 73.9 per cent thought that the proposals would negatively impact them. Concerns were shared as part of the survey feedback about the scheme's effectiveness, impact on local businesses, and fairness.
The proposals have been amended to address some of those concerns raised. There is also significant support in consultation feedback for the proposal’s potential to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance public transport services.
The proposals now include more detail, with recommendations to provide free park and ride journeys alongside the introduction of the temporary charge, for an initial period of two months before reviewing, covering the busy Christmas period. Additional permits are also being considered for certain circumstances including for ice hockey clubs and business cars.
If approved the temporary scheme could be introduced in autumn this year.
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