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BIKERS ALLOWED TO USE BUS LANE
DOMINIC JEFF HERALD REPORTER
Motorbikes are being allowed to use bus lanes in Plymouth in an attempt to reverse the dramatic rise in fatal accidents involving bikers in the city. Thirteen motorcyclists have died on roads in the Plymouth area this year already.
In an effort to tackle the problem, Plymouth City Council has introduced an 18-month experimental traffic order which will see bus lanes across the city being opened up to bikers gradually over the next few weeks.
It is hoped the move will also help to reduce congestion.
Cabinet member for transport Councillor Kevin Wigens said: "Evidence from other cities shows that allowing motorcyclists to use bus lanes reduces congestion and weaving in and out of traffic, improving road safety for everyone.
"By trialling these arrangements for an 18-month period we'll be able to judge whether Plymouth will see similar benefits."
Signs are being put up in bus lanes across the city in a rolling programme over the next four weeks. For safety reasons, motorcyclists are being asked only to use bus lanes where signs are in place.
The council's road safety team is advising bikers to enter and leave bus lanes as smoothly as possible and to be extra-careful at junctions where cars are allowed to turn into side roads across the bus lanes.
Mike Grainger, owner of GT Motorcycles in Plymstock and honorary president of Plymouth Motorcycle Club, said he welcomed the move, and hoped it would encourage more people to use motorbikes.
He said: "I'm absolutely delighted. Bikes do tend to filter through the traffic and it will be better for everyone if they go down the side.
"Maybe it will encourage more people to take to two wheels.
"It's been running in Bristol for years and it's been very successful. Ten out of 10 to Plymouth City Council; it's good to see they're so forward-thinking."
Similar arrangements in London, Bristol and Swindon have led to a drop in the number of accidents.
Plymouth City Council will monitor accident statistics, traffic flows and accessibility before and after the experimental order and feedback is being sought from users. The data will then be analysed before deciding whether to make the arrangements permanent.
The council says the trial has the support of the police and it has consulted bus companies, cycle forums, taxi representatives, motorcycle groups and other appropriate bodies.
An educational leaflet about the changes is being produced for all road users and will be distributed soon to motorcycle clubs and retailers.
It will also be available from council offices, and on the council's website.
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