Free Park And Ride Buses Extended In Oxford

Free park and ride bus journeys in Oxford will continue until the end of March 2026, Oxfordshire County Council has announced.

The offer was introduced on 29 October for an initial three-month period to support the council’s temporary congestion charge. The charge is in place while Botley Road remains closed, delaying the start of the planned traffic filter trial.

According to the council, the scheme has led to a significant increase in park and ride use, with operators reporting more than 179,000 additional journeys in the first two months compared with the same period last year. Income from the temporary congestion charge is being used to fund the offer.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management said: “The free park and ride bus journey offer is proving extremely popular, with park and ride operators reporting over 179,000 more journeys in the first two months of the offer than the same period last year.

“I’m pleased that so many people are benefitting not just from our offer of free bus journeys but also faster park and ride services since the congestion charge was introduced. The fantastic take-up is contributing to cleaner air, reduced traffic, and safer streets.”

Luke Marion, Managing Director of Oxford Bus Company said: “We’re delighted that the popular free park and ride scheme made possible by the temporary congestion charge will be continuing for a further two months.”

Chris Hanson, Managing Director of Stagecoach West said: “We are delighted that the free park and ride scheme has been extended for a further two months.”

Up to two adults and three children can travel for free with a valid park and ride parking ticket on participating services operated by Stagecoach, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel.