Double red lines proposed for busy bus route

Double red lines could be installed on a busy bus route as part of a scheme to improve public transport.

The proposals for Manchester Road in Bradford would mean anyone parking on the lines would be immediately fined.

Bradford Council's plans, which have gone out to public consultation, also include new crossings, tree planting, more bus lanes and improved bus shelters.

Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said the plans would "significantly improve" the road.

He said: "By reducing congestion, prioritising public transport and creating better walking routes, we're not only improving daily journeys but also building healthier, more connected neighbourhoods."

Double red lines are monitored by 24/7 CCTV and drivers are not given a grace period to move on like with double yellow lines.

The consultation says: "We are also considering using parking enforcement cameras in the bus lanes to back up these restrictions along the section of Manchester Road between the junctions with Runswick Street and St Stephen's Road.

"To do this, we would introduce a 'red route', which comprises double red lines along the bus lanes.

"This doesn't change any of the restrictions in the bus lane, but does mean we are able to install automatic parking enforcement cameras."

Meanwhile, earlier plans for a South Bradford park and ride scheme, which would include a 700-space car park and bus travel from the M606 down Manchester Road into the city centre, have been scaled back.

Funding for the plans was first announced by the government more than five years ago, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

But rising costs of this and other schemes from the Transforming Cities Fund led to the park and ride being scaled back and plans for new cycle routes paused.

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