From 1st December 2024, Birmingham City Council started enforcing existing bus lane restrictions on Broad Street, aiming to improve traffic flow and public transport efficiency.**
The restrictions, originally introduced in 2022 following the Metro extension to Five Ways, were reinforced due to ongoing issues with drivers using and stopping in bus lanes, which caused delays to bus and tram services. To address this, the council implemented camera enforcement, issuing £60 fines to motorists breaching the restrictions.
The council reminded drivers that it is illegal to drive in bus lanes during operational hours, regardless of camera enforcement. With the introduction of regular monitoring, stricter penalties have been applied to ensure compliance.
- Key Restrictions on Broad Street:
- Bus lanes and gates operate **24/7**.
- General traffic, including licensed Private Hire Vehicles, is **not permitted**:
- Through the underpass linking Broad Street to Hagley Road (only buses and trams allowed).
- Inbound on Broad Street between Sheepcote Street and Berkeley Street (only buses, trams, and Hackney Carriages allowed).
- Outbound on Broad Street between Berkeley Street and Granville Street (only buses, trams, and Hackney Carriages allowed).
- In the tram and bus interchange at Centenary Square (only buses, trams, bicycles, and Hackney Carriages allowed).
Birmingham City Council emphasized the importance of compliance with these restrictions to avoid disruptions to public transport services and improve road safety. Professional drivers operating private hire vehicles were also urged to familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid penalties.