All bus lanes are being suspended in Liverpool from today as part of a nine-month trial.
All bus lane cameras are being switched off and restrictions lifted over concerns the lanes are not reducing congestion o increasing bus use in the city.
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said: ‘While we don’t have extensive data, the evidence we do have suggests that bus lanes are not benefiting the city as planned, that they are not leading to an increase in bus usage, and that they may actually be making congestion worse.
Bus lanes are being suspended in Liverpool. ‘This trial is about getting the data we need so we can make an informed decision over this important issue which we know is a major source of frustration for motorists.
‘Some people have suggested to me that we shouldn’t do this because the bus lanes generate income of £700,000-a-year for the council. But in my view it would be immoral to treat motorists as a cash cow, and that is why my priority is making sure that we take a look at this properly.’
At the end of the trial, the council will consider if the suspension will be permanent or if some bus lanes will be reinstated. The council will also consider new alternatives such as HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes and Red Routes.
