Traffic filters are replacing the congestion charge

Oxfordshire County Council’s traffic filter trial will start on Monday 28th September, replacing the temporary congestion charge as a way to reduce traffic in the city. This follows Network Rail’s revised programme to reopen Botley Road on 20th September.

The traffic filter trial will operate in a similar way to the temporary congestion charge, with the filters being at the same six locations and a permit scheme in place. The trial, under an experimental traffic regulation order, can last for up to a maximum of 18 months.

The key difference is that, from 28th September, car drivers will no longer be able to pay the £5 congestion charge to go through the traffic filters. However, with Botley Road open, everywhere in Oxford will be accessible by car at all times without driving through a traffic filter. You may need to take an alternative route, but often you won’t.

Cars with valid permits and all other vehicles can travel through the filters at all times.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “I’m pleased that we are finally in a position to launch this important trial measure to reduce traffic in the city. The traffic filter trial aims to further reduce through-traffic and tackle congestion that has blighted the city for decades, creating a healthier, more accessible and attractive Oxford.

“A six-month public consultation will open on 28t September. Residents and businesses’ feedback will help us shape our future plans. We are listening and learning as we develop the best long-term solution for traffic in and around Oxford.”

Most people with congestion charge permits don’t need to take any action as their permits will be automatically transferred to traffic filter permits. The permit’s start date will revert to the traffic filter trial start date. Day pass allocations will automatically re-set to 100 for Oxford residents and 25 for Oxfordshire residents.

The council will be contacting all permit holders before the trial starts to explain what will happen next.

For people who don’t yet have a permit, applications are open online. Residents in the Oxford permit area are eligible for 100 day passes per year, while residents in the Oxfordshire permit area are eligible for 25 day passes per year.ar.

The start date of the traffic filter trial is subject to Network Rail reopening Botley Road on 20 September.

About the traffic filter trial

• The traffic filter trial was approved by Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet in November 2022, but implementation has been delayed because of the closure of Botley Road, due to Network Rail’s improvements to Oxford Rail Station.
• At each traffic filter site, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will monitor and enforce the restrictions. There will be no physical barriers. Cars without a valid permit driving through the filters will receive a fine of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days).
• During the first six months of the traffic filter trial, the council will send a warning notice the first time any car goes through a traffic filter without using a permit, instead of sending a penalty charge notice.
• The scheme only applies to cars. All other vehicles are exempt. For those where car use is essential, there are 20 different types of permits e.g. for carers and community health and care workers, making travel around the city easier for these groups.

The locations and operating times of the traffic filters will be the same as the temporary congestion charge:

• Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way - Monday to Saturday - At peak times between 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm
• Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clement’s Street and Thames Street - Monday to Sunday - 7am to 7pm

Want to know more ?

OCC are holding two online information sessions where residents can hear how the trial will work, learn about available permits and ask questions.
 
📅 Tuesday 8 September or Monday 14 September
🕕 6pm to 7pm
 
You do not need to sign up to attend, but you can register to get a reminder and send questions in advance. 

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