Fine for flouting new Mill Road bus gate restrictions revealed

Drivers could face a £70 fine if they breach the Mill Road bus gate restrictions once they come into force.

Cambridgeshire County Council approved plans to restrict who can cross Mill Road bridge in Cambridge yesterday (Tuesday, March 7).

The measures will not immediately be put in place, but are expected to come into force in the summer.

The county council has said it hopes the restrictions will encourage people to choose ‘sustainable travel options’, such as cycling and walking.

A number of exemptions are planned, including for buses, cyclists, pedestrians, taxis, blue badge holders (who will be able to nominate two cars), and authorised vehicles.

Drivers who are not exempt will face fines for travelling through the bus gate, which will be enforced by automatic number plate recognition cameras.

For the first 28 days after the scheme goes live, which is expected to be later this year, drivers who are not exempt will be sent a warning notice but no fine for the first time they breach the restriction.

Once the warning period comes to an end, drivers who breach the restriction may receive a penalty charge notice of £70, discounted to £35 if paid within 14 days.