Councillors vote to ease controversial bus gate scheme

The experimental scheme was introduced last year

Councillors have voted to ease Aberdeen's controversial bus gate scheme in the heart of the city.

The experimental bus priority routes were implemented last year.

The bus gate restrictions were introduced to reduce the amount of general traffic on Market Street, Guild Street, Union Street and Bridge Street.

Councillors have now voted to suspend the Union Street / Adelphi bus gate to allow vehicles to turn down Market Street and access Shiprow and Trinity Quay. The feasibility of changes at Bridge Street as well as from Union Terrace onto Rosemount Viaduct will also be looked into.

Concerns have been raised by business owners that the measures have been damaging trade.

The authority held a special meeting to discuss the scheme on Tuesday.

Adrian Watson, chief executive of business body Aberdeen Inspired, said other than a "minor concession" the council had "kicked it into the long grass".

Aberdeen City Council said it was engaging with bus operators, business organisations, and other stakeholders to explore options for delivering its City Centre Masterplan.

The restrictions were introduced last year under an experimental order, while the local authority gathered feedback.