Bus gate sees drivers fined more than £100k

The bus gate was introduced on Holmeside in April

Thousands of drivers have been handed fines totalling about £102,093 following the introduction of a bus gate in a city centre.

Sunderland City Council installed enforcement cameras at a new bus-only section of Holmeside six months ago, following a two-week grace period.

Between 1 April and 29 September, the council said 5,072 fines had been issued.

A statement from the local authority said the income from penalty charge notices could only be used for works on "highways, public transport and environmental projects".

The bus gate gives priority to buses travelling along Holmeside through to Vine Place.

The bus gate was established to improve public transport infrastructure

The fine issued to drivers is £70, however discounted to £35 if paid within 21 days, or challenged via an appeal process.

Of the 5,072 fines, the council confirmed it had received appeals in 686 cases, although the outcomes are currently unknown, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The traffic changes at Holmeside were previously proposed by city leaders as part of plans to improve public transport infrastructure and to "increase accessibility and safety".

The council statement said the cameras were also put up to "ensure that more road users follow the rules and regulations that are necessary when out on our roads and highways".