Oxford is set to bring in a £5 daily congestion charge from autumn 2025, in a move designed to cut city centre traffic and improve public transport reliability. The measure will act as a temporary solution until permanent traffic filters are rolled out in 2026.
Where the Charge Will Apply
The congestion charge will be in force at six key traffic filter points across the city:
- Hythe Bridge Street (7 am–7 pm, daily)
- St Cross Road (7 am–7 pm, daily)
- St Clements Street (7 am–7 pm, daily)
- Thames Street (7 am–7 pm, daily)
- Marston Ferry Road (7–9 am & 3–6 pm, Mon–Sat)
- Hollow Way (7–9 am & 3–6 pm, Mon–Sat)
Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will capture vehicles passing through these points. Drivers must then pay the £5 charge online or by phone before midnight the following day.
Exemptions and Permits
A range of exemptions and free permits will apply, including for:
- Blue Badge holders
- Community health and care workers, unpaid carers, and some hospital patients
- Mobile traders, driving instructors, registered car clubs, and business vehicles
- Taxis and private hire vehicles
- Local residents and commuters, who will be entitled to a limited number of annual day passes
Electric vehicles will not be exempt from the congestion charge, as the policy focuses on reducing traffic volume, rather than emissions.
Why Oxford is Introducing the Charge
The congestion charge is being introduced as a stop-gap while Botley Road, a major route into Oxford, remains closed for rail upgrade works. The closure has delayed the city’s permanent traffic filters, now expected in August 2026.
Revenue generated will first cover operating costs, with any surplus earmarked for:
- Cheaper or free Park & Ride services
- Expanded and improved bus services
- Lower bus fares
How This Links to Oxford’s Zero Emission Zone
Oxford already operates a Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in parts of the city centre, charging petrol and diesel vehicles to enter. The new congestion charge is separate, applying to all vehicles regardless of fuel type. The ZEZ is expected to expand further by 2027, creating one of the UK’s most restrictive urban clean air policies.
Industry and Community Reaction
Ride-hailing giant Uber has publicly backed the scheme, highlighting that taxis and private hire vehicles will be exempt. The company said it expects the measure to ease congestion and improve travel times for drivers.
Locals have shared mixed views, with some welcoming reduced congestion while others argue the £5 charge is too low to significantly change driver behaviour.
What Happens Next
Following a public consultation in summer 2025, Oxfordshire County Council is expected to approve the plans this autumn. If approved, the charge will operate until mid-2026, after which permanent traffic filters will take effect.
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