National changes to bus lane enforcement to affect North Northamptonshire

27 May 2022

Fines for the illegal use of bus lanes are set to increase from £60 to £70 as part of a change in national legislation, introduced by Government from next week.

The increase, from May 31, affects all council areas which issue Penalty Charge Notices for the contravention of traffic regulations in bus lanes.

In North Northamptonshire, this applies to the Gloucester Place bus gate linking Church Street to Cambridge Street/Market Street and the bus lane in Sheep Street in Wellingborough town centre.

Additionally, the initial period during which the payment of fines is discounted has increased from 14 days to 21 days.

Both changes bring the rules regarding bus lane contraventions into line with legislation regarding civil parking enforcement.

We welcome any additional deterrent to misuse of the bus lanes through these changes which are being brought in nationally and, as a local authority, we are obliged to comply with.

The rules are now in alignment with the charge and the discounted period for payment of a postal Penalty Charge Notice, which should help reduce confusion.Cllr Graham Lawman, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets

The measures were brought in to reduce congestion in this part of Wellingborough so that bus journey times could be more reliable and hence more attractive for the travelling public.

Encouraging people to use more sustainable modes of transport is one component of reducing carbon emissions in North Northants and creating a cleaner, greener environment.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council