12 months of chaos ahead Bus lane fines coincide with major roadworks congestion

LAST JULY there was much trumpeting as we were told that the new bus lane near the Five Ways junction on Groby Road in Leicester was complete. Cameras would catch both unsuspecting drivers who made a mistake as well as the reckless who were prepared to take a chance.

The trumpets are blowing again, and it sounds as if it never happened, as the Leicester Mercury has now reported that “it was first installed in early January and is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Leicester deputy city mayor for transport, clean air and climate emergency, Councillor Adam Clarke, told the paper that “Keeping our bus network moving is key to ensuring we have a reliable, affordable and convenient public transport system. Unfortunately, when other vehicles clog up bus lanes, they slow down those bus services and cause unnecessary disruption and delays.

“An average of six buses an hour make use of the bus lane, including the electric Hospital Hopper service, taking NHS staff to work and patients to appointments. At peak times Hospital Hopper buses have an average load of over 60 people; it’s important they and other bus users get to where they need to be in a timely way.”

Some drivers will agree wholeheartedly, but others may question the timing of the opening, with the Five Ways junction doomed to 12 months of chaos as major highway improvements are carried out there.

Over 300 motorists have been fined in the first month, generating income in excess of £10,000 if paid within 28 days, or double that if they delay payment. If the infringements continue at this rate the cost of the system should be recovered within six months.

Norman Griffiths

Groby & Field Head Spotlight

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