The fallout from Oxfordshire County Council’s approval of a £5 daily congestion charge continues, with Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds calling the decision “extremely unfair”, according to our Local Democracy Reporter Esme Kenney.
The temporary scheme, unanimously approved by the council’s cabinet on Wednesday (10 September), will apply to six city roads from 7.00am to 7.00pm daily, or during peak hours on Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way.
Exemptions include blue badge holders, emergency services and business vehicles, while Oxford residents can apply for up to 100 annual permits. The scheme is intended to reduce traffic until Botley Road reopens in August 2026, when it will be replaced by traffic filters.
Dodds criticised the decision, arguing that most of the scheme’s income would go towards subsidising Park & Ride fares, rather than improving bus services for all.
“Oxford is not London,” she said. “Our geography and public transport simply aren’t up to London’s standards. The county should have focused on better alternatives instead of this kneejerk scheme.”
Business representatives also voiced concern. Bernadette Evans of the Oxford Business Action Group warned the charge would harm already struggling shops: “Margins are tighter than ever and any reduction in customers could mean a business failing.”
However, cycling and active travel groups backed the plan. Ian Loader of Cyclox described it as a necessary measure to tackle Oxford’s congestion and pollution, while Hannah Kirby of the Coalition for Healthy Streets called it the only “credible” option available.
Cabinet member for transport management Andrew Gant admitted the scheme “doesn’t cure everything” but said it would speed up bus services, improve safety, and encourage walking and cycling. Councillor Tim Bearder also stressed the council faced legal risk if it failed to deliver on promises made to bus operators, who have invested £42 million in new electric buses.
The scheme has divided political opinion. Oxford City Council leader Susan Brown and county councillor Liz Brighouse, both Labour, strongly opposed it, while Labour city councillor Jemima Hunt supported the charge as a step towards lasting change. Conservative councillor Liam Walker dismissed the plan as “out of touch” and unfair to rural residents.
Despite widespread criticism and threats of legal challenges from campaign group Open Roads for Oxford, the council estimates the scheme will generate £3.2 million in its first 10 months, ringfenced for transport improvements.
