Information checked: 16 October 2026. This article was first published on 1 July, when 14 September was the announced start date. The trial subsequently began on 28 September 2026. The guidance below has been updated, including the exceptions to automatic permit transfers.
Oxford’s traffic filter trial replaced the temporary congestion charge on Monday 28 September 2026. Drivers can no longer pay £5 to take a car through one of the six filter points during its operating hours.
The scheme uses number-plate cameras rather than physical barriers. The council says it is a trial to assess traffic and transport changes; its intended benefits should not be read as results already demonstrated.
What changed from the July announcement?
The original 14 September start date was revised after Network Rail changed its programme for reopening Botley Road. The council’s current traffic-filter guidance explains the change and the rules.
The trial had been approved in November 2022 but was delayed by the Botley Road closure for Oxford station works. It can operate for up to 18 months under an experimental traffic regulation order.
Where are the traffic filters and when do they operate?
| Location | Area | Days | Operating times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hythe Bridge Street | Central Oxford | Monday to Sunday | 7am to 7pm |
| St Cross Road | Central Oxford | Monday to Sunday | 7am to 7pm |
| St Clement’s Street | East Oxford | Monday to Sunday | 7am to 7pm |
| Thames Street | Central Oxford | Monday to Sunday | 7am to 7pm |
| Marston Ferry Road | Marston | Monday to Saturday | 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm |
| Hollow Way | Cowley | Monday to Saturday | 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm |
These hours apply throughout the year, including bank holidays. Outside them, the traffic-filter restriction does not require a permit. Check the council’s map, operating hours and permit-area boundaries before choosing a route.
Which vehicles need a permit?
The restriction covers cars and motorhomes classified as M1 vehicles, including electric cars. Other vehicle types are exempt. If uncertain, check your vehicle’s classification rather than relying on how it looks.
A car needs a valid permit to cross during the stated hours. Otherwise, use an alternative route. The council says all parts of Oxford remain reachable by car without crossing a filter; this does not mean every previous route is still available.
Did congestion-charge permits transfer?
The council says most existing permits transferred automatically, with resident allowances reset. Unused congestion-charge day passes did not carry over.
The central permit area ended. Its resident permits changed to Oxford-area resident permits with 100 day passes. Central-area visitor permits, workplace parking permits and the permits for sports clubs, nurseries or military training expired and were not transferred. Those holders must check whether they qualify for another permit.
Read the council’s permit list and transfer guidance rather than assuming an old permit still authorises a journey.
How do resident day passes work?
An approved Oxford permit-area resident permit provides 100 day passes over 12 months. The allowance belongs to the permit, not separately to each car. One person can hold one permit covering up to three cars, with up to three permits per qualifying address.
The wider Oxfordshire resident permit provides 25 day passes over 12 months, with up to two permits per qualifying address. It also allows up to three cars on one person’s permit.
A pass permits repeated crossings by the same registered car on that day. Using a second car on the permit that day deducts another pass. Applications need approval before use; an allowance that has run out no longer provides access.
Other permit categories include eligible Blue Badge holders, carers, community health and care workers, frequent hospital patients and cars used for qualifying goods transport. Conditions vary, so check the relevant category and evidence requirements.
What happens if a driver crosses without a permit?
The council lists a £70 penalty, discounted to £35 when paid within 21 days. For the first six months of the trial, the first contravention receives a warning rather than a fine. This is not permission to keep making unpermitted crossings. Follow the instructions and deadlines on any notice.
How to give feedback on the trial
The consultation opened on 28 September and is scheduled to close on 28 March 2027. Residents, businesses, visitors and organisations can describe their experience through the official consultation. Paper copies are available from County Hall and Oxfordshire libraries.
The council says feedback and monitoring will inform whether and how the scheme continues. Its consultation announcement gives further details.
