Portswood bus gate project permanently scrapped

The City Council says it led to an increase in traffic on other residential roads

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 18th Sep 2025

A controversial bus gate aimed at reducing traffic on a busy road in Southampton won't be coming back.

The trial on Portswood Road in January was stopped in May.

The City Council says it led to an increase in traffic on other residential roads - so the idea is now being scrapped.

Councillor Christie Lambert, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“I’d like to thank local people, businesses and community groups as well as the project steering group, for their time and consideration in taking part in the various consultations and co-design workshops and their commitment to improving Portswood.

“We are dedicated to using the remaining Transforming Cities funding to deliver travel improvements in the Eastleigh to Southampton corridor and are committed to engaging with local people and community groups on what opportunities could do the most good.”

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