Oxford's congestion charge fines set to be used to fund several benefits as drivers foot the bill

Drivers have been warned that money raised from Oxford’s temporary congestion charge will now be used to fund cheaper travel, road safety improvements and support for NHS staff, school workers and jobseekers.

Oxfordshire County Council explained that one of the biggest changes will be a new £3 park and ride ticket, which will include 16 hours of parking and return bus travel for up to five people. The offer is expected to start in mid-August and run until March 2027.

The current free park and ride bus travel scheme has also been extended until mid-August.

The temporary congestion charge was brought in while Botley Road remains closed.

The closure has delayed the planned traffic filter trial and caused major disruption across the city.

Council leaders explained that the charge is already helping to cut traffic and improve bus journeys.

Councillor Gareth Epps, the council's cabinet member for transport, said: "The temporary congestion charge is giving residents and visitors to the city faster journeys, cleaner air, reduced traffic and safer streets.

"We now have an opportunity, with the funding from the scheme, to support some measures with lasting impact that will improve convenience and road safety for the most vulnerable road users."

The council also believed the extra money would help tackle long-standing traffic problems in Oxford while making sure more groups benefit from the scheme.

Under the plans, NHS workers and school staff travelling into Oxford could get free weekday park and ride parking, along with free or discounted bus travel.

But the council did note that the proposal still needs further talks with NHS trusts, schools and Oxford City Council before details are finalised.

New hospital express park and ride bus services are also being considered to help staff and patients travel more easily.

The council has also agreed to fund free bus travel for six months for people taking part in its Connect to Work programme during 2026 and 2027.

Other improvements include new walking and cycling infrastructure across Oxfordshire.

This could include safer pedestrian crossings, upgraded side roads, and more secure cycle parking.

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The authorities also plan to investigate subsidised bus season tickets for some communities.

At the moment, up to two adults and three children can travel free on buses to and from Oxford Park and ride sites if they have a valid parking ticket. Travellers must collect the bus ticket from the driver at the park and ride site.

The tickets can be used on buses run by Stagecoach, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel, as long as the service stops at a park and ride site in Oxford.

The council first introduced free parking and ride bus travel in October last year to support drivers and commuters affected by the congestion charge and ongoing roadworks.

Oxford has faced severe traffic problems during the long-running Botley Road closure, with many drivers complaining about delays and rising journey times.

The congestion charge currently applies at six locations across Oxford, and drivers without a permit must pay £5 per day to pass through the zones.

Some routes operate only during peak hours, while others run from 7am to 7pm daily. Residents, traders, carers and Blue Badge holders can apply for permits allowing free access.

The scheme was brought in as a temporary measure while Botley Road remains closed, which has delayed the introduction of a planned traffic filter trial.

The congestion charge is expected to stay in place until the road reopens, which is currently anticipated for this summer.