Hull's new bus lane cameras turned on

Initially warning notices, not fines, are to be given to drivers

Number plate recognition cameras have been turned on in Hull to help issue fines to car drivers using bus lanes during restricted hours.

Hull City Council said bus lanes are operational Monday to Saturday, between 07:00 and 09:30 and 16:00 to 18:30 for routes around the city centre.

Councillor Martin Mancey said the council hoped to encourage more people to travel by bus or cycle.

From August drivers caught in bus lanes are to get a £60 fine.

Emergency vehicles, motorcycles, cycles and taxis are still able to use bus lanes at all times.

For the first two weeks of the scheme warning notices are to be given to drivers who enter an operational bus lane.

There is a discount for paying a fine quickly but if a motorist does not pay within 28 days the charge goes up to £90, the council said.

Mr Mancey, said the scheme was part of the council's ambition to reduce the city's carbon footprint.

Peter Shipp, of bus company East Yorkshire Motor Services, said: "It is certainly not our wish to see motorists fined for using bus lanes.

"All we want is bus lanes kept clear so that buses can operate more efficiently and reliably."