Bus lane and gate enforcement

Bus lane and gate enforcement is part of a programme of measures to reduce congestion and pollution, and to improve the reliability and punctuality of public transport.

What this means for drivers

It is a road traffic offence to drive in any bus lane or past a bus gate within the prohibited hours. Prohibited hours are shown on a plate below the sign on the gate or at the bus lane entrance.  Where no hours are shown on the signs, then traffic is prohibited from using the bus lane 24 hours a day.

You may be fined if caught within prohibited hours. Drivers who ignore bus lane or gate signs increase congestion and cause delays for public transport users. Find out more about vehicles which can use bus lanes.

Fines

If you are caught entering, stopping or driving in bus lanes during prohibited hours, you will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) for £70 which must be paid within 28 days of issue. This is reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.

The council can issue fines using camera evidence. The police can issue fines, but motorists will not be fined by the council and police for the same offence.