Fines warning ahead of new bus lane camera

Drivers are being advised of new bus lane cameras that will soon go live.

They have been installed in the Holmeside area of Sunderland city centre and begin operating just after midnight on 18 March.

A two-week grace period will be in place to allow people to get used to the new system, with a warning notice issued instead of a fine.

Those who then break the rules will receive a £70 fine, which Sunderland City Council said can be reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.

The camera follows the introduction of cameras in Dene Street, Silksworth and Brancepeth Road, Washington, in 2023.

From 18 March, buses will have priority along Holmeside through to Vine Place with a new gyratory system turning traffic from Holmeside onto Maritime Street.

A new road link has also been created through the site of the former Peacock’s store onto Brougham Street, next to The Bridges shopping centre.

So far, 1,934 warnings and penalty charge notices (PCNs) have been issued from the Silksworth camera, and 1,496 warnings and PCNs have been issued from the Washington camera.

Labour-led Sunderland City Council said money from the camera fines will be used for "highways, public transport and environmental projects".

Drivers who disagree with a fine will be able to appeal online or in writing.

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