Bus Lane Cameras Come Into Force

Cameras, which have been installed to catch motorists driving in bus lanes illegally, have come into operation.

It is understood six static cameras have been installed around Belfast city centre, while a mobile detection unit will monitor other parts of the city. The cameras are situated at Castle Street, East Bridge Street, Donegall Square East, Donegall Square South, Great Victoria Street and College Street East.

Meanwhile, it has been said that Antrim, Lisburn and Newtownabbey will also fall under the new enforcement rules.

An initial two-week grace period will be given to those who are caught driving in bus lanes. When this finishes, drivers who continue to break the law will risk a £90 on-the-spot fine.

The measures, which come into force today (1 June), aim to deter drivers who illegally use bus lanes to jump queues and cut across traffic.

Commenting on the regulations, Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said: "Bus lanes were introduced to help manage traffic, reduce journey times and improve our public transport infrastructure. Supporting this I want to ensure that everyone who travels on our roads does so in a responsible and respectful way. I am confident that these new measures will help achieve this."

(JP)