Bus lanes and bus only streets

We keep bus lanes free from traffic so that bus travel is easier and more reliable. This improves bus service reliability and reduces journey times. We are committed to improving public transport in Birmingham, reducing the number of cars on our roads and making the city’s air cleaner.

Bus lanes are easy to identify. The words ‘bus lane’ are painted on the ground and their boundaries are clearly marked with a solid white line. Signs ahead of a bus lane show the types of vehicle allowed in the lane and the times when it is in operation. If no times are given, the bus lane is operational 24 hours a day.

Along the bus lane there may be sections of broken white lines. These show where vehicles are permitted to cross the bus lane, such as when you need to turn left.

A bus only street is just that. It is a street which only buses are permitted to use. Bus only streets are clearly marked at the entrance to the street. Signs show permitted vehicles and times of operation, if applicable.

Birmingham also has a number of bus gates. A bus gate gives buses priority at a junction with traffic signals, by holding other vehicles at a red light and allowing the bus to get ahead of queued traffic.

Bus lane

Bus only road

Bus gate

Page last updated: 13 September 2024