New bus lane in Preston city centre to go live

Friday, 23 January 2026 16:36

By Central Radio News

A new bus lane in Preston city centre will go live next month, with warnings issued to drivers who use it incorrectly to begin with.

The dedicated lane has been added to the westbound section of New Hall Lane between Fishwick Road and Witton Street to give priority to buses and bicycles 24 hours a day on the approach to the junction with London Road.

New signs on New Hall Lane warn drivers not to use the bus lane, to ensure people don't use it when they shouldn't.

Warning notices have been put up to let people know the date that enforcement will begin on Monday, February 2.

No fines will be issued initially, with warning letters issued to those who use the bus lane when they shouldn’t.

Following a short grace period, Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) will then be issued to discourage people from driving down the bus lane when they shouldn't.

Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for Highways and Transport said: "The aim of this scheme is to improve public transport journey times and timetable reliability.

"We've added the new lane dedicated for exclusive use by buses and cycles within the width of the existing road, so drivers can avoid a fine by continuing to use the single lane which has always been available to them.

"This will allow public transport to move more seamlessly through the junction, allowing buses to bypass congestion and cut journey times, particularly during peak travel periods.

"We are giving motorists a short grace period to get used to the change and we won't initially be issuing fines. Please be aware of the change and follow the correct route using the clearly displayed signs."