Free bus travel from Oxford’s park and ride sites will continue until at least the end of May 2026, Oxfordshire County Council has confirmed.
The scheme, which allows passengers to travel into the city centre at no extra cost after paying for parking, was introduced in October as part of wider measures linked to the temporary congestion charge.
What the scheme offers
Under the current arrangement, up to two adults and three children travelling together can use park and ride bus services for free with a valid parking ticket.
The offer applies to buses operated by:
- Stagecoach
- Oxford Bus Company
- Thames Travel
Passengers are not restricted to dedicated park and ride routes, meaning they can use any bus service stopping at a park and ride site.
Why it was introduced
The free travel scheme was launched on 29 October to support the introduction of a temporary congestion charge in Oxford.
The charge was brought in as an interim measure while Botley Road remains closed, which has delayed the planned introduction of traffic filters in the city.
Income from the congestion charge is being used to fund the free park and ride travel, alongside other transport-related measures.
Aimed at reducing traffic
Oxfordshire County Council says the scheme is designed to encourage more people to leave their cars outside the city and travel in by bus.
Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said the measures were already having an impact.
He said:
“The temporary congestion charge is giving residents and visitors to the city faster journeys, cleaner air, reduced traffic and safer streets.
“I’m very pleased that we’re able to continue to invest in free park and ride bus travel which helps to further reduce traffic, giving people faster buses and more choice and convenience when it comes to getting to and around the city, including to major hospital sites.”
What happens next
The extension means free travel will remain in place for at least the next two months, with further decisions expected later in the spring.
The council says additional plans for how congestion charge income will be used will be discussed at a future Cabinet meeting.
At a glance
| Detail | Information |
| Scheme | Free park and ride bus travel |
| Extended until | At least May 2026 |
| Introduced | 29 October 2025 |
| Who can travel | Up to 2 adults and 3 children per parking ticket |
| Operators | Stagecoach, Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel |
| Applies to | Any bus serving park and ride sites |
