Hull bus lanes to begin rush hour-only operation

All of Hull's bus lanes will switch to peak time operating on Monday 18 March

Bus lanes in Hull are to switch to peak time hours-only operation on Monday, the city council said.

Restrictions will be enforced between 07:00 and 09:30 GMT and 16:00 and 18:30 GMT Monday to Saturday.

The change from all-day operation comes after Hull City Council revealed 65% of respondents to a survey wanted the lanes to only operate at rush hour.

Objectors raised concerns about increased pollution and fears that bus and bike journeys would take longer.

Liberal Democrat council leader Mike Ross said the change to the operating times was "a decision that balances the needs of all members of the travelling public".

"Real change takes time, and I would like to thank our residents for their patience and understanding while this work has been completed," he said.

"The new bus lane operating times demonstrate the council's commitment to addressing traffic issues and congestion.

"With this matter now resolved, the council is keen to see the city's highway network and transport system continue to evolve and move forward."

Mr Ross added the council was committed to "investing in off-road cycle lanes".

Objectors claimed the change would lead to longer journey times and more pollution

More than 40 objections were lodged against the proposals ahead of the decision and the council's own highways officers said they would make little difference to congestion.

Objectors included East Yorkshire Buses' managing director Ben Gilligan and Hull Friends of the Earth who raised concerns over increased pollution and claimed it would make bus and bike journeys longer.

Hull Labour opposition leader councillor Daren Hale said the changes were a simple solution to the complex problem of congestion on local roads.

During the operating times only buses, taxis and bikes can use the lanes both into and out of the city.

Restrictions will remain unchanged in Carr Lane, the council said.