What traffic filters are and how they will work.
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What are traffic filters?
Traffic filters are intended to reduce traffic levels in Oxford by targeting unnecessary journeys by cars. All other vehicles including taxis, buses, coaches, all vans, mopeds, motorbikes and HGVs can still pass through these traffic filters at all times.
The filters are not physical barriers but are time restrictions on six roads in the city intended to reduce the number of cars in Oxford.
Cars should not drive through the traffic filters without a permit while the traffic filter restriction is in operation. Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will monitor and enforce the restrictions.
It will be physically possible to drive through the filters during restricted times without a permit, but you will receive a penalty charge notice (PCN) if you do so.
The traffic filters cover very short lengths of road (just a few metres). Any vehicle can use the road outside the filter at any time without a permit.
Residents in Oxford and some areas just outside the city will be able to apply for a permit allowing them to drive through the traffic filters for up to 100 days each year.
Other Oxfordshire residents will be able to apply for a permit allowing them to drive through the traffic filters for up to 25 days each year.
Read more on our traffic filter fact-check page
Why we’re proposing traffic filters
We want to reduce unnecessary journeys by private cars and make walking, cycling, public and shared transport the natural first choice.
This will help us deliver an affordable, sustainable and inclusive transport system that enables the county to thrive while protecting the environment and making Oxfordshire a better place to live for all residents.
Traffic filters are an important way to achieve this in Oxford. The proposed traffic filters will:
make walking and cycling safer and more attractive.
make bus journeys quicker and more reliable.
enable new and improved bus routes.
support investment in modern buses
help tackle climate change, reduce local air pollution and improve the health and wellbeing of our communities.