New bus lane cameras installed along Birmingham’s famous Broad Street have caught an impressive 24,743 drivers in just their first year of operation. Enforcement began at the end of 2024 with the aim of ensuring smoother journeys for buses and trams on this bustling nightlife hub.
The cameras cover five key sections of Broad Street—known for its vibrant pubs, bars, and clubs—where only buses and trams are allowed to travel. Since enforcement started, thousands of motorists have been fined for violating these restrictions.
Data obtained by BirminghamLive reveals a sharp rise in recorded offences after the camera position on Berkley Street was adjusted to capture more violations. Previously recording just a few hundred offences monthly, this location saw 5,508 fines issued in September and 3,557 in October alone. This suggests many drivers were previously avoiding detection, and enforcement is likely to continue tightening in 2026.
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Another hotspot is Bridge Street, where over 8,500 fines have been recorded up to October. While bus lane restrictions were introduced in 2022, active enforcement only commenced late last year as part of the city council’s efforts to “keep the city moving.”
Fines start at £30 and double to £60 if unpaid within 14 days. The bus lanes and bus gates on Broad Street operate 24/7, strictly barring general traffic from using the road to prioritize public transport.
A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council explained that the recent jump in fines was due to a technical adjustment on the Berkley Street camera, improving its accuracy. They emphasized that this reflects better enforcement rather than a worsening trend in driver behaviour.