Park and ride fees to be scrapped

Councillors believe the plan will cut carbon emissions in the city

Parking charges at all of Oxford's park and ride sites are to be scrapped.

The changes will come into effect from Wednesday as part of a deal which will see the management of the Redbridge, Peartree and Seacourt sites change.

Oxfordshire County Council is taking over the service from the city council on a 10-year lease deal.

There are currently no charges at the Water Eaton and Thornhill park and rides but this will mean all five sites in the city will have free parking.

Councillor Colin Cook, Oxford City Council's member for city development said: "Free parking at all of Oxford's park and ride sites will be a boost for local businesses and the local economy.

"It will provide an additional incentive for people to use public transport to get into the city centre."

Councillor Ian Hudspeth, Oxfordshire County Council's member for transport, said: "We plan to continue the fine tradition of park and ride by introducing more and more people to the concept by offering free parking at all five sites.

"These changes will also help to reduce the carbon footprint of drivers by encouraging drivers to stop bringing their cars into the city centre and using the bus instead."