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Oxford's new traffic filters scheme causes city centre gridlock and delays
Overview
Oxford's new traffic filters scheme, introduced by Oxfordshire County Council on 28 September, has led to extensive delays, heavy traffic, and gridlock in the city centre. Shoppers, drivers, taxi drivers, and bus operators have reported severe congestion, particularly around Botley Road, Oxpens Road, and the Westgate shopping centre car park. The council states it is still early days for the trial and is monitoring the impact, while a six-month public consultation is underway.
Key points
- Oxfordshire County Council introduced a new traffic filters trial on 28 September with fines of up to £70 for unauthorised drivers passing through six points.
- The scheme has caused widespread gridlock and extensive delays for shoppers and drivers, particularly around Botley Road, Oxpens Road, and the Westgate shopping centre.
- Taxi drivers and bus operators have reported significant delays, noting that traffic congestion near the railway station and Westgate Centre is causing lost time and extra fuel costs.
- The Oxford Bus Company and Westgate Oxford raised concerns about the impact of the scheme and concurrent roadworks, with Westgate calling for significant investment in public transport.
- The county council defends the scheme as a step to tackle long-standing congestion, and a six-month public consultation is currently underway for the trial, which can run for up to 18 months.