New signs informing drivers about the temporary bus gate at the junction of Milsom Street and George Street in Bath have been put up ahead of cameras being switched on later this month.
The new signage | Photo © B&NES Council
The signs are now on the route leading up to the junction at Gay Street, George Street, Lansdown Road and the Paragon to alert motorists to the bus lane restriction which first came into force on 6th July.
The vehicle restriction, introduced by Bath & North East Somerset Council, allows only buses to travel along the one-way Milsom Street up to the junction with Quiet Street between 10am and 6pm, providing more space for people to keep their distance and enjoy the health and environmental benefits of a traffic-free zone.
The restriction will soon be monitored by automatic number plate recognition cameras (ANPR) in line with other bus gates in the city and enforced by issuing of fines to make sure the zone is safe for pedestrians and cyclists,
The temporary measure is part of the council’s response to the government directive to create more space for pedestrians and cyclists in busy locations and encourage active travel.
Councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for transport services, said: “The new signs will act as reminder to residents about the vehicle restriction and make it clear to visitors to Bath that they can no longer drive along Milsom St.
“Please remember that the ANPR cameras will be switched on this month and continue to use an alternative route.
“The cameras will make sure that people can enjoy what Milsom St has to offer by bike or on foot and are able to safely social distance.”
The council has put in place temporary traffic restrictions in other parts of Bath and in Keynsham to protect public health, make walking and cycling safer and encourage active travel.
Residents have also been asked to put forward locations for longer-term improvements designed to reduce the use of vehicles on our roads.
Views can be shared on the Liveable Neighbourhoods website (https://bathnesliveablestreets.commonplace.is) before 18th October.
