A scheme which charges most motorists to drive through the city in attempts to reduce emissions has raised almost £700,000 in fines in the year since it was launched.

Britain’s first Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) began in Oxford on February 28 2022.

The pilot scheme covered just a handful of city centre streets.

Vehicles  are charged between £2 and £10 per day depending on their emissions between 7am and 7pm.

There are discounts and exemptions for some road users, including disabled motorists, residents and businesses in the zone.

Zero emission vehicles, such as electric cars, can enter the pilot area free of charge.

Oxford Mail:

Initially warning notices were issued to drivers but from April 2022 Oxfordshire County Council started handing out fines.

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A county council spokesperson said: “The Oxford ZEZ pilot has raised £695,483 to 31 January 2023 from a combination of vehicle charges and Penalty Charge Notices.

"The income will be used to cover the costs of operating the scheme and to fund measures like supporting the transition to zero emission vehicles and active travel schemes."

Proposals are being developed to extend the ZEZ to a wider area of the city centre.

The spokesperson said: "These proposals will be preceded by extensive stakeholder engagement and are subject to public consultation.

"The final decision on the expansion of the ZEZ scheme will be made by the county council cabinet.”

 

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This story was written by Miranda Norris, she joined the team in 2021 and covers news across Oxfordshire as well as news from Witney.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Miranda.Norris@newsquest.co.uk. Or find her on Twitter: @Mirandajnorris

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