Oxford’s Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) pilot has launched today (28 February), bringing charges on all petrol and diesel vehicles, including hybrids, unless exempt.

Oxford is the first city in the UK to introduce a Zero Emission Zone

While many cities have already introduced or explored Clean Air Zone restrictions, Oxford is the first city in the UK to introduce a ZEZ, which aims to reduce toxic air pollution in the city and encourage people to make positive changes in travel behaviour.

The pilot is running in a small number of streets in the city centre and will allow Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council to gain insights before introducing a larger ZEZ covering most of Oxford city centre next year, subject to further public consultation.

Vehicle charges vary from £2 to £10 per day, depending on the emission levels of the vehicle.

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

Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras have been installed to enforce rules within the zone and ZEZ payments can be made via the county council’s website. Charges can be paid up to six days in advance, on the day the vehicle is driven in the zone, and up to six days after the vehicle has been driven inside the zone.

Councillor Duncan Enright, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Travel and Development Strategy, said: “I want to thank all the residents and businesses who sent us their feedback on the pilot and worked with us to develop the scheme. Our vision is to create a zero-carbon transport network by 2040 and the ZEZ pilot is an important step towards achieving that vision.

“We will learn from the pilot and in the coming months we will consult with local communities as we develop plans to expand the ZEZ across the city centre. We hope that residents, businesses and visitors will join us in our journey towards a carbon neutral future.”

More information on the ZEZ and the charges, discounts and exemptions available can be found at oxfordshire.gov.uk/zeroemissionzone