Traffic filters scheme replaces congestion charge
BBCOxford's temporary congestion charge has come to end, but has simultaneously been replaced with a new traffic filters trial.
The filters were first approved by Oxfordshire County Council in November 2022, but their start date was repeatedly delayed by the closure of the Botley Road.
In the meantime, the council introduced the temporary congestion charge, which saw motorists charged £5 per day for travelling through points on six roads in the city.
But with the Botley Road now reopen, from 07:00 Monday morning car drivers will face a fine of up to £70 for passing through the same six charge points as the previous congestion charge.
The county council scheme operates seven days a week between 07:00 to 19:00 for any driver passing through specific points on Thames Street, Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road and St Clement's Street.
Two of the filters, on Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way, only operate during peak hours, between 07:00 and 09:00 and between 15:00 and 18:00, Monday to Saturday.
The filters will use the same technology as the congestion charge, including automatic number plate recognition cameras.
The £70 fines will be reduced to £35, if paid within 21 days.
Exemptions and permits exist in the same way as for the congestion charge - including for blue badge holders and frequent hospital patients.
Residents are also eligible for a certain number of permits to pass through the points, depending on where they live in the city, and the county.
Gareth Epps, the council's transport chief said the temporary congestion charge had "shown encouraging signs that people are changing how they travel".
"The traffic filter trial is the next step in helping us tackle congestion that has blighted the city for decades," he said.
Epps said a six-month public consultation regarding the filters trail would begin with their start on Monday.
"I'm keen to understand the impacts of the trial scheme and see the feedback from residents, organisations and businesses," he said.
"Your views and experiences will help us shape our future plans for improving travel and transport in and around Oxford."
The trial, which began on Monday morning, will last for a maximum of 18 months - after which the council will decide whether it should be made permanent.
