Proposals to introduce a temporary £5 congestion charge in Oxford city centre have divided council leaders.
Oxfordshire County Council suggested implementing the congestion charge as a short-term solution to traffic problems following the closure of Botley Road, which is not due to reopen until August 2026.
The proposals are due to be discussed by cabinet members on June 17, who have been asked to consider a six-week public consultation on the scheme that would begin on June 23 if approved.
Cllr Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: ‘We urgently need to see improvements to travel around the city; better bus services and less traffic overall, to help people get around.’
However, the proposals have been met with complaints by Oxford City Council due to concerns about financial accessibility.
Cllr Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council commented: ‘We are concerned that this scheme allows people who can afford to do so to buy access to our streets. Those who can’t will struggle.’
Calling for a ‘cheaper, more comprehensive bus service’ across the city, Cllr Brown argued that a ‘full review of transport policies’ is required to tackle congestion in Oxford.
‘This is something a Greater Oxford Council would do’, she added.
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