Warning notices begin for bus gate rule flouters

The bridge in the city is restricted to many motorists, but there is no physical "gate" preventing traffic passing through

Official warning notices are now being given to motorists who do not abide by rules surrounding a new bus gate, although fines are not expected to be handed out until March.

The bus gate at Mill Road bridge in Cambridge prohibits most motor vehicles except buses, the emergency services, taxis and blue badge holders' registered vehicles.

Restrictions have been in place since December, but Cambridgeshire County Council had given drivers an extended period to get used to the lay-out.

However, officials said notices would now be issued to those who flout the rules, but as yet, they have not introduced any fines.

The bus gate is in place on Mill Road bridge, which goes over the railway on one of the main roads heading in and out of the city centre

The council began its "phased approach to the bus gate restriction" before Christmas, but stepped up the warnings from Monday.

Neil Shailer, vice-chairman of the council's highways committee, said: "We're now starting the next stage where those drivers of vehicles that are not exempt will receive a warning notice, and we'll also find people whose vehicles should be exempt. They will need to register.

"We have already contacted more than 360 local care providers about exemptions for vehicles of care workers carrying out home visits in the Mill Road area, and received some positive feedback from our engagement, so we hope this extended period allows everyone time to get used to the restriction."