How easy is it to park in Oxford? Our readers have their say

Parking in Oxford can be notoriously difficult due to restrictions on car access in the city centre - especially for traffic coming in from the east - and expensive parking charges.

Oxford City Council recommend: "Using Park and Ride for fast, convenient and excellent value access to Oxford city centre."

But it appears that 'convenience' and 'excellent value' are far from the truth, according to our readers.

I'll just park here across the pavement and double yellows in Summertown this afternoon. It's OK though because my hazard lights are flashing....#parkedorabandoned?#antisocialparking#pavementsareforpeople pic.twitter.com/frhbcNDGQd

— Badly Parked Oxford (@BadlyParkedOx) October 5, 2024

Responding to an Oxford Mail Facebook post, there was no love for Oxford's relationship with the humble motor.

"Parking in Oxford is like trying to find a honest politician," one reader joked.

Another said: "Oxford is one big parking spot because no body can get anywhere with all the LTNs everywhere and if there is just one road closed standstill".

Someone else commented: "More chance than getting a GP appointment".

Charges for Oxford's zero emission zone (ZEZ) apply from 7 am to 7 pm, seven days a week, all year round. The daily charge covers the entire day, so a vehicle can enter and be used within the area on multiple occasions each day. 

However, this still catches some people out, "Anyone driving into oxford should be made aware of a congestion chargeas my son got a fine. I have never seen anything about a congestion charge until his fine came through. Puts you off going now," a reader noted.

When and how to pay the charge

You will be able to pay the charges online:

• up to six days in advance
• on the day the vehicle is driven in the zone
• or in the following six days.

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The expense of Oxford was a major talking point in the comments section: "Don't use your car unless absolutely necessary. Park and Rides are Ok. If bringing a car into the city, plan well ahead and bring lots of money."

Another said: "Expensive and stressful go to Banbury instead free parking."

What should councils do to make parking in Oxford easier? Let us know in the comments