Why introduce Bus/Taxi Lane enforcement?
Bus Lane enforcement has been operating successfully in London for a number of years. Studies have shown that the number of prohibited vehicles using Bus Lanes has reduced significantly as a result of enforcement, which has resulted in improved bus reliability, increased road safety.
Effective and efficient Bus Lane enforcement will allow the Council and its partners to achieve easier and more consistent journey times for buses/taxis through congested areas by allowing the free flow of bus lane traffic.
By improving the public transport network we will encourage commuters to choose more environmentally friendly forms of travel and thereby reduce CO2 emissions.
In areas of high pedestrian use Bus Lanes also allow us to dramatically reduce the number of vehicles driving through a busy area, improving safety for pedestrians while still allowing good access to the area.
Can I pay and appeal?
No. Once payment is received the case is closed and any representations will NOT be accepted. Please be aware any representations are made at the full penalty charge and the discount will not apply.
What happens to the income from the fines?
Any surplus income received is transferred to the County Council where it is ring-fenced to highways maintenance and improvements. This income will help pay for the building of an alternative bridge route across St Ann Way and other highway schemes.
Who does Bus/Taxi Lane enforcement affect?
Anyone who makes illegal use of Bus/Taxi Lanes to gain advantage over queuing traffic. There are no exceptions, the law applies to cars, motorcycles and scooters. Taxis unless otherwise specified.
How will I know what a Bus/Taxi Lane looks like?
Bus/Taxi Lanes are easily identifiable to a driver; signage is clearly displayed immediately prior to the start of the Bus/Taxi Lanes showing the restriction.
The restrictions are only currently enforced by camera for the stretch of Bus Lane over Llanthony Road and applies to the whole width of the road.
Camera enforcement was applied to Llanthony Bridge when the levels of abuse rose to such high numbers that the safety of pedestrians was seriously compromised and buses and taxis failed to achieve the benefits the Bus Lane was designed to provide.
Other Bus Lanes may be considered for camera enforcement in the future.
How will Bus/Taxi Lane enforcement take place?
Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are used to record vehicles driving or parking in Bus Lanes.
These cameras record vehicles using the Bus/Taxi Lanes, and take a close up image of the vehicle including a registration mark. The camera also tracks the vehicle driving, parking or stopping in the Bus/Taxi lane to provide evidence that a contravention of the restrictions has taken place.
Llanthony Road is enforceable 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
The recordings will be checked by a second enforcement officer, to ensure that an offence has occurred and that there are no mitigating circumstances, which may have led to the vehicle being in the Bus/Taxi Lane.
How can I view the images of my vehicle?
You or your representative may, by notice in writing to the Council, request to view the record of contravention, free of charge. This will be arranged at the Council Offices during office hours (08.45am to 4.30pm)
Last Modified: Wednesday 21 March 2012