In the past, drivers using the park and rides would have to pay for parking and also bus travel. The first two months of Oxford’s congestion charge saw a 44.6 per cent growth in park and ride journeys via Oxford Bus Company services, with the free bus travel scheme extended in January for a further two months. A park and ride bus in Oxford (Image: Oxford Bus Company)“Since the congestion charge came into force, we’ve seen reduced traffic on Abingdon Road, allowing smoother and more reliable bus journeys. One of the initiatives funded so far has been free park and ride bus travel. Independent city councillor David Henwood said the free bus travel arrangement should be extended until the end of August "and beyond".