Oxfordshire congestion charge forecast to raise £2 million more than expected
A report has been published ahead of decisions on how to spend the cash
Oxford's congestion charge is now predicted to generate an additional £2 million, with surplus income expected to reach £5.2 million by August 2026.
Initially anticipated at £3.2 million over a 10-month span, the higher revenue opens up discussions on allocating these funds.
The Oxfordshire county cabinet will convene next week to decide on the distribution of funds sourced from fines and a £5 daily fee implemented through traffic cameras around Oxford.
Recommendations include extending the free Park and Ride scheme, as a move toward a combined £3 parking and bus ticket starting after 1st June.
On 19th May, the cabinet plans to vote on the updated pricing strategy, which indicates a 50p increase from the current offer.
The proposed £3 combined ticket will offer 16 hours of parking and return bus travel for up to five individuals.
This subsidy between 16th August and 31st March is predicted to cost over £1.4 million.
Further plans include free or subsidised Park and Ride and bus travel for NHS staff year-round and state and private school staff during term time.
An allocation of £840,000 has been earmarked for these initiatives.
Additionally, hospital express Park and Ride services are estimated to require £1 million for a year’s operation.
The council assessed the possibility of citywide or countywide fare reductions but cited prohibitive costs.
Suggestions for fare caps included £2 countywide, costing £9 million annually, and £2.50 caps requiring £5.75 million.
A £1 single fare within the Oxford SmartZone was estimated at £15.5 million per year.
The report concluded smaller fare discounts are unlikely to majorly boost bus usage.
The recent resignation of transport lead Andrew Gant, who spearheaded the contentious policy, came amidst criticisms of signage issues and data inaccuracies.
Hopes for policy adjustments were voiced by business and transport groups following his departure.
Rebekah Fletcher (Lib Dem) assumes the role, but a spokesperson indicated that changes are improbable.
The congestion charge will evolve into traffic filters after Botley Road reopens in August, in alignment with the council's transport and connectivity framework emphasizing reduced private car use.