Traffic filters are replacing the congestion charge: what you need to know
Changes to the way you travel can bring up lots of questions. In this blog, we explain what is changing, when it starts, and what it means for people who drive in Oxford.
What’s happening?
The temporary congestion charge was introduced to help manage traffic during Network Rail’s extended closure of Botley Road.
As Botley Road reopens, we can move ahead with the traffic filter trial as planned.
You will still be able to get by car to where you need to go, but you may need to use a different route if you do not have a permit for your car.
When is it happening?
Why are we trialling traffic filters?
Oxford needs to reduce the number of cars on its roads to thrive. You want a city where your journey is quicker, more connected and more reliable.
The traffic filter trial is just one of the ways we’re making it happen.
By further reducing the amount of car traffic, we can improve public transport options and provide more travel connections locally, giving you more choice about how and when you choose to use them.
It’s simple. Continuing to reduce congestion helps create a healthier, more accessible and attractive Oxford – opening the door to new businesses and jobs, and increased opportunities across the county.
It’s part of the Oxford we’re building. And a change that will make a difference to all our lives.
What’s the difference between the congestion charge and traffic filters?
Important: traffic filters apply to cars only. All other vehicles, including vans, mopeds, motorbikes, and emergency vehicles, can pass through these locations at any time.
What happens if I drive through a traffic filter without a permit?
- For the first 6 months: If you drive a car through a traffic filter while it is operating and you do not have a valid permit, we’ll send you a warning letter the first time it happens.
- If it happens again: If you drive through a traffic filter during operating hours without a permit, you’ll get a £70 fine. This is reduced to £35 if you pay within 21 days.
Things that stay the same
- Only cars need a permit. All other vehicles, including vans, mopeds, and motorbikes, can pass through these locations for free at any time.
- Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will enforce the restrictions.
- Traffic signs will show where and when traffic filters apply to cars. Advance warning signs will give you time to choose another route before you reach the filter point.
- Each traffic filter applies to one point on the road, over just a few metres. You can still use the road on either side at any time without a permit. There will be no physical barriers.
- The locations and operating times will stay the same as the congestion charge scheme.
Locations and operating times
- Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way – Monday to Saturday at peak times: 7am - 9am and 3pm - 6pm.
- Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clement’s Street and Thames Street – Monday to Sunday between 7am - 7pm.
Will I still be able to access everywhere in Oxford by car?
Yes. You will be able to drive a car to any part of Oxford without going through a traffic filter. If your usual route goes through a traffic filter while it is operating, you will need to take a different route unless you have a permit.
Read our ‘Travelling in and around Oxford’ and ‘Travelling to a hospital in Oxford’ blogs to find out more about other transport options.
Is there anything I need to do?
If you have a congestion charge permit:
For most people, your congestion charge permit will automatically become a traffic filters permit. You do not need to apply again. If you have an Oxford or Oxfordshire resident’s permit, your day passes will be reset to 100 or 25, depending on where you live.
If you live in the central permit area, your permit will become an Oxford resident’s permit with 100 day passes.
The permits listed below will end. This is because, once Botley Road reopens, people will be able to reach all parts of Oxford without driving through a traffic filter. If you have one of these permits, you may be eligible for a traffic filters permit instead.
- Central permit area resident visitor permit
- Central permit area workplace parking user permit
- Central permit area permits for sports clubs, nurseries or military training.
Depending on your circumstances, this could include a Blue Badge holder permit, a personal car used by community health or care worker permit or a personal car used as a goods vehicle permit.
We will contact all permit holders before the trial starts to explain what will happen next.
If you don’t have a congestion charge permit:
Residents living in the Oxford or Oxfordshire permit areas can apply for permits to allow for a set number of free day passes for the traffic filters. Find out more about these permits:
Additional permits are available for some people and groups, including Blue Badge holders, unpaid carers, community health and care workers, mobile traders, and patients who need frequent hospital appointments in Oxford. You can find out about the different permit types on traffic filter exemptions and permits.
To apply for and manage your permits online:
- Register for a free online account
- Select the permit you are applying for and upload the required documents.
If you cannot apply online, call 01865 519800.
Not sure if you have a congestion charge permit?
- Sign in to your online account.
- Click the drop-down menu next to your name in the top-right corner.
- Select Permits.
- Look for an Oxford congestion charge permit in the list.
- To check which vehicle or vehicles are linked to it, and how many passes you have, click on the permit.
Will I be able to share my views about the trial?
Yes. When the trial starts we will launch a formal consultation so you can share your views and experiences. Your feedback during the trial will help shape our future plans. We are listening and learning as we develop the best long-term solution for traffic in and around Oxford.
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