Drivers have been recorded driving the wrong way down a bus lane in Broughton, near junction one of the M55.



The offences were captured by the bus lane cameras, which were being tested and calibrated this weekend, ahead of the official enforcement from Monday (21 May).

Details of the vehicles involved have been sent to Lancashire Police.

Lancashire County Council's Cabinet member for highways and transport, Keith Iddon, said: "I'm really shocked at this. A small number of drivers are choosing to drive the wrong way along the bus lane.

"There are clear markings on the roads and signing to show people where they should be driving. It could be that people were simply following sat navs or are unfamiliar with the new road layout, but it is concerning that they didn't see the signs and markings."

The short section of bus lane links Garstang Road to James Towers Way, heading towards the M55 roundabout. The aim is to improve bus travel, while also providing a shorter route for emergency services responding to incidents.
The bus lane was created as part of the construction of James Towers Way. But despite being marked and signed as a bus lane, had originally been subject to significant misuse from some drivers.

The county council took the decision last year to close the bus lane to all vehicles, while the issue was looked into. A bus lane camera will catch unauthorised vehicles.

Warning notices will only be issued initially to help make people aware of the changes, ahead of full enforcement when people who misuse the bus lane will be subject to a Penalty Charge Notice.

The ambulance service based on Garstang Road will benefit from being able to use the bus lane during emergencies.