Full Breakdown
Oxford Launches Traffic Filters Trial as £5 Congestion Charge Ends
By Drooid · · How we work
New Traffic Filters Trial Begins
Oxfordshire County Council has replaced the temporary £5-per-day congestion charge with a traffic-filters trial. Drivers without a permit who pass ANPR-monitored points on Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, Thames Street and St Clement’s Street are now liable for fines of up to £70. Two additional filters on Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way operate only during peak periods (07:00-09:00 and 15:00-18:00, Monday-Saturday). The scheme runs seven days a week from 07:00 to 19:00 on the main routes and is billed as a 18-month trial, though officials suggest it may become permanent. The council projects a £7 million surplus from the trial, far above the £3.2 million originally estimated.
Background & Context
The traffic-filters plan was approved by the council in November 2022 but delayed while Botley Road remained closed. In the interim, a temporary congestion charge was introduced, charging motorists £5 per day for traversing the same six road points. With Botley Road now reopened, the council argues the filters are the “next step” to address congestion that has plagued the city for decades.
Official Statements & Responses
He described the traffic-filter trial as essential for tackling long-standing congestion. Liam Walker, Conservative leader, warned that the reopening of Botley Road will make it the obvious route for many western commuters, raising concerns about future bottlenecks. Shadow transport chief David Henwood labelled Oxford a “city of penalties,” referencing the combined effect of traffic filters, bus gates, bus lanes and moving fines. Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber called the filters “even worse” than the congestion charge, citing business concerns about trade impacts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “With the £5 congestion charge ending, Botley Road will inevitably become the obvious route for many drivers coming from the west.” — Liam Walker
- “I fear it will be the final straw for many businesses. Glad I no longer work in the city and do not have to travel there regularly.” — Matt Bullock