Archive report — checked 16 October 2026. The consultation described here ran from 23 June to 3 August 2025 and is closed. The temporary congestion charge was later replaced by traffic filters on 28 September 2026. For journeys now, read the current council guidance. The main graphic illustrates the old consultation; its four symbols are not a map of the six charging locations.
Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet approved public consultation on a proposed temporary congestion charge at its meeting on 17 June 2025.
The decision allowed residents, businesses and organisations to comment on the proposal. It did not itself authorise the charge to begin.
The council proposed an interim scheme while the closure of Botley Road delayed its traffic-filter trial. At the time, the road was forecast to reopen in August 2026. That estimate was subsequently superseded.
What was proposed?
Cars without a qualifying permit would have paid £5 for a day’s crossings of the six charging points during their operating hours. Other vehicle types were not to be charged. The scheme would use the cameras and administration planned for the traffic filters.
The proposed locations were Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clement’s Street and Thames Street, operating 7am–7pm daily; and Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way, operating 7am–9am and 3pm–6pm, Monday to Saturday.
Permit eligibility included specified groups such as carers, community health and care workers, Blue Badge holders and mobile traders. Resident day-pass allowances and special central-area permits were also proposed; this was not unrestricted free access for all residents or visitors. Our earlier proposal report sets out the historical details.
Why the council sought feedback
In its 17 June announcement, the council said it wanted to improve bus travel and reduce traffic during the Botley Road closure. Transport cabinet member Andrew Gant welcomed the opportunity for residents, businesses and visitors to respond.
The council said any income remaining after scheme costs could support transport improvements, including cheaper bus travel or park-and-ride options. These were proposed uses, rather than benefits already delivered.
The 2025 consultation is closed
The six-week exercise opened on 23 June and closed on 3 August 2025. It offered an online survey, paper copies at County Hall and libraries, and information events. The launch announcement records what people were asked to comment on.
At the time of this report, the council planned to consider the consultation findings in September before deciding whether to implement the temporary charge in autumn 2025.
What applies now?
The temporary charge has ended. Under the traffic-filter trial, drivers cannot pay £5 to cross a filter during its operating hours. Check our updated guide to locations, times and permits before travelling.
