Bus Lanes - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How are these schemes funded?

The bus priority programme is a set of schemes which are funded by Transport for London (TfL) to improve bus reliability and journey times for passengers. These schemes being consulted form part of this TfL programme.

Who can use a bus lane in Barnet?

In London Borough Barnet the following people can use a bus lane:

• Buses
• Cycles
• Taxis (Hackney Carriages)
• Emergency Services.

What do the bus lane signs look like?

The bus lane signs will look like the image below and detail the appropriate timings it is in operation. If you do not abide by the times you could receive a penalty charge notice.

Why have these locations been chosen for bus lanes?

These locations have been chosen for consideration to have bus lanes due to delays experienced along the route. Implementing bus lanes is a key measure to make sure buses can be on time.

How will the bus lanes benefit buses?

By carefully establishing appropriate locations for bus lanes (using surveys and historic data), buses are able to bypass traffic during the busiest times on the network to provide journey time reliability for passengers.

Will the new bus lanes impact my business?

Taking the bus is a crucial way to access shops and services in our local high streets. By improving the reliability of our public transport system, we can attract even more visitors to the area. Although parking and loading within the bus lane will be limited during certain times, there are nearby alternative locations for parking, loading and deliveries.

How will the schemes affect parking and loading?

Parking and loading surveys have been completed across all the schemes. Timings for the bus lanes have been decided by the current delays caused. Outside of the times prescribed you are allowed to park or load.

Why are you improving these areas only for buses?

The proposals will not only help bus users but also people who walk or cycle as they will be further from most general traffic.

Surely these schemes will just cause congestion?

Officers have undertaken traffic modelling with TfL to make sure the schemes to not negatively impact one user against another unnecessarily.

Can the funding be used to repair footway and potholes?

The funding provided by Transport for London (TfL) is specifically allocated to improving the bus network and cannot be used for highway maintenance/repairs which are undertaken by the council.

I have another bus related issue - can I provide feedback on it as part of this consultation?

This consultation is limited to the proposed bus lanes for the three corridors. If you have general issues related to buses or bus infrastructure, you can report it to TfL using their streetcare portal.

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