Plans to implement a congestion charge in Oxford city centre are set to be considered, following the end of a public consultation into the proposed scheme. Oxfordshire County Council’s scrutiny committee will discuss the scheme, and the consultation results, at a meeting today, says the BBC.

The charge would apply to car drivers only, and permits would be available for carers, traders, blue badge holders and those commuting to or living in a central area of the city.

More than 7000 people responded to an Oxfordshire County Council consultation, with about three quarters of respondents saying the plans would negatively impact them.

Under the current proposals, cars would have to pay a £5 daily charge to enter Oxford via six roads around the city.

In a statement ahead of the meeting, the council said the proposals would be “carefully scrutinised” before being considered by cabinet in September.

“This will include considering all feedback received as part of the consultation – which has been published,” the authority explained. No decision has been made yet,” it emphasised.

Recommendations to provide free park and ride journeys for an initial period of two months, as well as additional permits for ice hockey clubs and business cars have all been added to the plans following the consultation.

The council wants to introduce the temporary charge whilst it is unable to implement already approved traffic filters – which have been delayed by the on-going Botley Road works.

(Pic: Yay Images)