Oxfordshire County Council Launches Traffic Filter Scheme in Oxford
Oxfordshire County Council implemented six traffic filters on September 28 to replace a congestion charge and reduce city center traffic.
The Oxfordshire County Council launched a traffic filter scheme in Oxford on September 28, 2026, replacing a year-long £5 congestion charge. The system uses ANPR cameras at six locations—Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, Thames Street, St Clement’s, Marston Ferry Road, and Hollow Way—to monitor car traffic. Drivers without permits now face fines of up to £70, though the council is offering a grace period of up to six months for first-time contraventions.
The rollout follows the September 20 reopening of Botley Road, which saw an immediate return of heavy congestion. Because filters on Abingdon Road restrict other routes, critics warn that Botley Road will become a primary bottleneck for motorists accessing the city center and Westgate shopping center. Local business owners and political leaders argue the scheme will harm trade and act as a revenue-generating measure, with council projections suggesting a potential surplus of £1.156 million.
Council officials defended the trial as a necessary step to tackle decades of congestion and reduce pollution. While the council ruled out adding further filters at Hollybush Row or Oxpens Road, it stated it would monitor traffic flow and adjust signal timings as needed. To mitigate the impact, the council is promoting expanded bus services and the Seacourt Park and Ride facility.
