Hull bus lane enforcement to return to peak times only

All day bus lanes were introduced in the city in July 2020

Councillors in Hull have approved plans to return bus lane enforcement in the city to peak hours only.

All-day bus lanes were introduced in 2020 by the previous Labour administration in a bid to help improve traffic flow.

However, some commuters said they had led to an increase in congestion.

More than 20,000 residents responded to a survey, with 65% calling to reduce enforcement times, though bus operators said the move would impact services.

Speaking after the proposals were approved, Mike Ross, Liberal Democrat leader of the council, said: "Having considered all the feedback, we have made a decision that balances the needs of all members of the travelling public.

"The public wanted to see the bus lanes revert back to peak hours only [and] we want people to get around the city safely whether they go by car, bus, or bike.

"Today's decision demonstrates the council's commitment to addressing traffic issues and congestion, while continuing to support residents to make active travel choice... and a wider ambition to invest in more off-road cycle facilities," he said.

Ben Gilligan, managing director of East Yorkshire buses, said he was "very disappointed" by the decision.

"We have made considerable representations to the council, and we do feel this decision is going to make things far worse for bus passengers, and won't actually improve things for car users.

"The council has not presented any evidence to suggest that it will," he said.

Mixed reaction

Bus lanes have been operating Monday to Saturday, between 07:00 and 18:30 since July 2020. The proposed changes would see those hours changed to between 07:00 and 09:30 and 16:00 to 18:30

However, Mr Gilligan said the Covid pandemic had led to changes in travel habits, with the afternoon peak now starting much earlier.

"That means roads are busier, buses are slower, and we will have to change our timetables to accommodate that," he added.

Residents in Hull had mixed reactions to the changes.

One woman told BBC Look North it had previously been much quicker to drive into the city before all-day bus lanes were introduced.

However, another resident said there was no evidence that it would reduce congestion.

The current restrictions are expected to remain in place until early next year, a council spokesperson said.