Oxford residents bemoan high city centre parking fees

Oxford: Residents are unhappy about high parking fees in the city centre. In 2024, Oxfordshire County Council made over £1.8 million from parking fines. They say this money helps with enforcement.

Mansfield Road had the most penalty charge notices, averaging 14 tickets daily. Parking can cost up to £19 for three hours from Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 6:30 pm.

Bernadette Evans from the Oxford Business Action Group said high fees make it feel like Oxford is closed for business. Many customers risk tickets to avoid paying full charges.

She noted that small businesses suffer as shoppers choose other towns with friendlier parking. The Park and Ride option isn’t practical for quick trips.

Evans suggested the council offer short-term free or cheap parking during off-peak hours to attract shoppers back to the city.

Jeremy Mogford, a local hotel and restaurant owner, agreed that parking costs hurt businesses. He recalled when parking was free at night and affordable during the day.

Councillor Andrew Gant explained that the goal is safer roads, not profit. He emphasized that illegal parking can endanger others and that compliance is key.

He encouraged using Park and Ride services, which cost £4 for 16 hours of parking and a return bus ticket.

An Oxford City Council spokesperson mentioned that congestion has worsened over the years. They aim to reduce cars in the city to improve public transport and air quality.

The top streets for parking tickets included St Giles, Cheney Lane, and High Street. Councillor Ian Yeatman highlighted the need for accessible short-stay parking to support local businesses.

In total, the county council issued 63,147 penalty charge notices in 2024.