A projected £7.7 million surplus has prompted activists to challenge whether the congestion charge’s goals have been achieved and examine its wider effects.

Following Botley Road’s reopening on September 28, the congestion charge will conclude and a six-month traffic filter pilot will commence.

Campaign organisations have examined data regarding the scheme’s outcomes, expressing concerns over their findings.

Oxford Business Action Group representative Peter West noted that although public transport ridership has risen and urban congestion has decreased, the charge has significantly impacted neighbourhood enterprises, caused a decline in cycling, and lengthened travel times on the orbital route.

He explained that examining June monitoring figures revealed the authority has collected approximately £7 million overall from the scheme, including £1.3 million during June alone.

Peter further noted that limited information exists regarding pedestrian activity, though council-supplied data indicates Queen Street footfall dropped by a mean of 3.4 percent, while June 2026 figures demonstrate a 14.7 percent decline.

The review also indicated that despite one of the council’s stated aims being to boost cycling, participation has actually fallen by 7.4 percent.

He noted that an anticipated consequence of the charge involves substantial increases in travel duration along specific road sections at particular times.

The same data shows journey time rises exceeding 20 percent at Hinksey Hill, Kennington, Heyford Hill, Cutteslowe and Wolvercote roundabouts, with all these areas potentially deterring motorists from travelling to Oxford for shopping purposes.

Against this backdrop, another advocacy organisation, Reconnecting Oxford, disputed the reception extended to visitors during the scheme’s summer period.

Geoff Sutton observed that nine months after implementation, the congestion charge revenue significantly exceeds the council’s own projections.

He noted that independent traders are also experiencing financial losses.

Council statistics demonstrate declines in both pedestrian numbers and commercial spending.

The explanation is evident: numerous Oxfordshire inhabitants are now bypassing the city, with prospective first-time visitors declaring they will steer clear after learning about penalties imposed on previous travellers.

Paradoxically, the increase in cycling anticipated by the council following the charge’s introduction has also failed to materialise.

Cycling volumes are considerably lower.

Who will hold this council responsible for the harm inflicted?

County transport lead Gareth Epps explained that revenue from the charge funds improvements to travel and transportation throughout Oxford. A fresh park and ride programme launched this week offers all-day parking combined with return bus transport for up to five passengers at just £3.

He encouraged anyone who hasn’t already done so to obtain permits via their website.

As the transport portfolio holder, he continues to actively consult with businesses throughout the city regarding strategies to ensure Oxford remains an appealing location for residence, employment, tourism and commerce.