New bus lane to be implemented in Liverpool City Centre

A new bus lane has officially opened today, Monday 20 January, in Liverpool as part of the city council’s ongoing efforts to improve public transport reliability, reduce congestion, and enhance air quality.

The bus lane, which operates between Irvine Street and Mount Vernon Road, will be enforced using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras.

It will run 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday, under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) for a maximum of 18 months.

During the initial six months a ‘Warning Notice’ period for first time offenders will be in effect. A repeat offender during this period will be penalised.

This measure is expected to reduce bus journey times as well as make buses more reliable for passengers.

It is hoped that the improvement to passenger experience will encourage a shift from private cars to public transport. Any reduction in private car use will help improve air quality as traffic congestion and emissions will be minimised.

The new bus lane will also create a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians.

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The bus lane will be introduced under an Experimental Traffic Order, allowing for a review and potential amendment of the scheme based on public feedback over the next 18 months.

The introduction of the bus lane comes as the Council’s next cabinet meeting, being held on Tuesday 21 January, is recommending the approval of the Liverpool Urban Mobility and Public Spaces Plan, which will transform public space and movement for the next 20 years.

Councillor Daniel Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said:

“This bus lane is a key step in our plans to make public transport more efficient and sustainable.

“The promotion of our public transport services has a key part to play in making Liverpool a leader on the path to net zero and a more sustainable future for all.

“We encourage everyone to give their feedback on the scheme so we can continue to improve our city’s transport network.”