Following our recent communications on a temporary congestion charge for cars in Oxford, I wanted to let you know that residents are now able to apply for permits ahead of the start of the scheme, using an online permit registration system which launched today.
The temporary congestion charge is planned to start on Wednesday 29 October.
The scheme is aimed at reducing traffic while Botley Road remains closed, contributing to a healthier and more accessible city. It’s designed to improve bus services and facilitate travel for those with permits, including carers, traders, and blue badge holders.
A daily charge of £5 will allow cars without a permit to go through six charge locations on roads in Oxford. This will apply from 29 October when the scheme begins.
Any vehicle that isn’t a car – for example: van, motorbike and bus – will be automatically exempt from the temporary congestion charge and does not need to apply for a permit.
Permits are available for residents, blue badge holders, community health and care workers, mobile traders, patients with frequent hospital visits, and many other groups.
Following the public consultation in the summer, two new permit types were added to the scheme, allowing free travel for members of sports clubs or military training in the Oxford permit area and for pool cars owned and operated by businesses or organisations in the Oxford permit area.
To support their permit application, people are asked to provide evidence of their eligibility, for instance a proof of address, the V5C (logbook) for the car they’re applying for, or valid blue badge. All details are of the requirements for each type of permit are clearly listed on the permit application website.
Residents can get help with permit registration or apply by calling customer services at 01865 519800.