Bus Lane Enforcement
Bedford Borough Council is taking responsibility for enforcing
the correct use of bus lanes throughout the Borough.
Effective and efficient bus lane enforcement will allow the Council
and its partners to achieve easier and more consistent journey
times for buses and taxis through congested areas by allowing the
free flow of authorised bus lane traffic.
Improving the public transport network will also encourage
commuters to choose more environmentally friendly forms of travel
and thereby reduce CO2 emissions.
The Police are responsible for the enforcement of the majority
of traffic regulations where vehicles are moving, such as speeding
or other forms of dangerous driving. However, authorised by current
legislation, Bedford Borough Council will enforce bus lane
contraventions through the issuing of Penalty Charge Notices
(PCNs)
There are five bus lane areas in Bedford Borough; Greyfriars, Horne
Lane, Ampthill Road, Kingsway and Bedford Road Kempston. The only
additional vehicles permitted to use bus lanes are taxis and
private hire vehicles, bicycles and motorbikes.
Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment and
Transport has said: “The Council has a responsibility to keep our
roads safe for all, as well as trying to reduce congestion by
encouraging more people to use public transport.
“All bus lanes in Bedford Borough are clearly signposted and
include clear markings on the road itself. There is no excuse for
not realising you are driving illegally in a bus lane and it is
right that we will take action to keep our roads safe for the
majority of law abiding road users.”
The enforcement of bus lanes will be carried out by a static
approved camera, which can be moved between bus lanes when needed.
The camera takes a recording of any unauthorised vehicle using the
bus lane and the evidence pack is then assessed by a civil
enforcement officer to issue a postal penalty charge notice if
necessary.
Further information regarding Bus Lane Enforcement and PCNs is
available online at www.patrol-uk.info