New red route planned for Coventry along with other restrictions

A map of the changes shows the red route could be installed on 13 roads in Coventry city centre

A new red route and more double yellow lines could be introduced in Coventry.

If approved, the red route would apply to 13 roads, meaning motorists would not be allowed to stop there at any time.

The double yellow lines could affect 21 roads, including some streets that previously had the lines removed.

The plans would make bus journeys more reliable and allow work for the Very Light Rail (VLR) line, Coventry City Council said.

The VLR is billed as a faster and cheaper alternative to traditional tram systems.

It is set to run from Coventry railway station to the Pool Meadow bus station via Warwick Road and Corporation Street, with work to prepare the area set to begin in the spring.

Work to prepare the area for the VLR track would start in spring 2024, the council confirmed

The red route, marked by red lines, is designed to reduce congestion and traffic delays, with drivers in Coventry set to face a £70 fine for not following the rules, reduced to £35 if paid within two weeks.

The restrictions mean most motorists will not be allowed to stop on the road, including to drop off or pick up passengers.

Emergency services, blue badge holders and taxi drivers are all exempt from the restrictions, with all other vehicles having to use signed parking bays instead.

The route would also include "smart camera technology" to catch cars that stop or park illegally, the city council said.

The changes would cover roads where the VLR track would be installed as well as some outside of this area, many of which link the city centre with the Ring Road.

A new cycleway from Greyfriars Green to the bus station is also proposed and work could start next autumn.

This news was gathered by theLocal Democracy Reporting Servicewhich covers councils and other public service organisations.