Bus lane cameras catch 90,000 drivers in 4 years
BIRMINGHAM’S city centre bus lane cameras have snared more than 90,000 motorists since being introduced in 2013, new figures show.
Data issued under the Freedom of Information Act also reveals that during 2015-16 the number of £60 fines issued was 33,850 – suggesting many motorists were still straying into the lanes, despite repeated warnings and publicity.
The most triggered bus lane cameras were southbound on Priory Queensway up to Old Square, in Corporation Street, which caught 18 drivers per day – and it seems many motorists continue on to the second stretch of Priory Queensway where 15 a day are caught.
Cameras on the opposite northbound side of the street were catching only nine and three drivers per day.
The fines are £60, but many get a discount of £30 if the bill is settled within 14 days. The fine can also rise to £90 if not paid within 28 days.
The council did not supply details of total income.
City roads bosses have recently agreed plans to introduce bus lane enforcement cameras in Lichfield Road, Aston, Tyburn Road, Pype Hayes, and Bordesley Green and are thought to be looking at more commuter routes around the city.
The controversial city centre cameras were introduced in Priory Queensway and Moor Street Queensway in autumn 2013 to stop cars driving in bus lanes and to speed up journey times for buses.
But the lanes became a major issue after part of Corporation Street was closed to buses for construction of the Midlands Metro tram line. The move immediately sparked outrage as many motorists and taxi drivers complained they did not see warning signs.
Parents visiting Birmingham Children’s Hospital complained that other road signs encouraged them to use the Priory Queensway bus lane.
An independent adjudicator agreed, thousands of fines were written off and more visible signs installed.