Bus Gate warning as hundreds face fines
Manchester
Tens of thousands of pounds worth of fines are being dished to motorists in Manchester City Centre who are ending up in the so-called bus gate systems.
There are now two operating on Portand Street AND Oxford Road.
Councillors say at least 200 cars are clocked by the cameras every single day and they're now launching a campaign to raise awareness of the signs.
A new concept for Greater Manchester, a bus gate marks a section of road where priority is given to buses, cyclists and taxis while general traffic is prohibited. There is no physical barrier or gate, it's marked by regulated signs including 'No Motor vehicles' signs (the flying motorcycle).
Bus gates have been created to improve bus services by reducing journey times and increasing reliability. They provide a better service for passengers and ultimately support greater use of public transport.
A bus gate has been in operation on Portland Street since March 2016.
Since it was introduced the number of vehicles using that route has dropped from 12,000 to just 150.
The vast majority of drivers are complying with the signage and using the diversionary routes, allowing buses to move more efficiently through the Piccadilly Gardens.
The Oxford Road bus gate is operational between Hathersage Road and Booth Street.