Motorists using the bus lane in Broughton – just on from the M55 roundabout – are now being fined for trying to take a short-cut.

Lancashire County Council fitted traffic enforcement cameras after the bus lane was reopened in late May.

Since then they say an average of 64 drivers per day have been snapped illegally driving in the bus lane.

Warning notices were being issued but since Monday (18 June) these are now turning into penalty notices costing £60 per offence.

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Cabinet member for highways and transport county councillor Keith Iddon said: “We want to discourage people from using this bus lane when they shouldn’t. This lane is designed to help buses by providing them with quick access onto the roundabout.

“James Towers Way has reduced congestion in the centre of the village. When it opened, some people chose to rat-run along Garstang Road, using the bus lane as a short cut.

“We don’t want anyone to get caught out by the bus lane camera, which is why we initially had a grace period when we only issued warning letters, however from this week people will be fined if they misuse it.

“We’re happy if we don’t make a penny from the camera, as it means that people are doing the right thing.”

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The penalty charge notice is reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days.

When first introduced the county council issued CCTV pictures showing cars driving the wrong way down the bus lane.

The bus lane was put in as part of the Broughton Bypass works but was closed soon after due to the volume of mis-use, delaying buses and potentially ambulances using the route.

What do you think about the bus lane? Do you live in Broughton? Let us know in the comments below