Oxfordshire County Council yesterday launched a six-week public consultation on temporary congestion charge proposals.
The scheme was suggested as a short-term solution to traffic issues and bus journey delays caused by the closure of Botley Road.
Priced at £5 per day, the congestion charge will apply to six locations in Oxford, which residents have been invited to share their views on by August 3.
The council has confirmed that the charge is applicable to cars only, and groups such as residents, blue badge holders, carers and mobile traders will be eligible for permits that render them exempt them from paying congestion fees.
Following feedback from the consultation, the local authority plans to present its final proposals in September, with a view to implementing the scheme later this year if approved by cabinet members.
Cllr Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: ‘We believe the proposed temporary congestion charge could have a significant positive impact on people’s travel in and around the city by strengthening local bus services and reducing overall traffic. It’s our response to calls for urgent improvement from bus companies and others.
‘I’d like to encourage residents to read through our proposal and tell us about how it might make a difference to them.’
