Oxfordshire County Council has revealed a decision towards expanding an existing Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in Oxford is expected in the spring.

A small pilot area has been in place for nine streets in Oxford since February 2022 but the final rollout will involve most of the city centre.

The exact date is yet to be finalised for the decision which will be made by councillor Judy Roberts, cabinet member for infrastructure and development strategy.

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A council spokesman said: "Expansion of the zero emission zone will take place if decided by the county council’s cabinet at a future meeting following assessments, engagement with residents, businesses and other interested parties, and public consultation."

The Zero Emission Zone already exists in Oxford with the aim of "improving air quality, cutting carbon emissions, and moving towards zero emission travel in the city".

All petrol and diesel vehicles, including hybrids, incur a daily charge if they are driven in the zone between 7am and 7pm unless they have a 100 per cent discount or exemption.

The scheme is enforced using automatic number plate recognition cameras.

Drivers who use a low emission vehicle (LEV) pay £4 at the moment but that charge is expected to rise £8 in the summer of 2025.

The public will be invited to have their say on the scheme before the ZEZ's full expansion.

The county council has worked with Oxford City Council on the project.