NUMBER-plate recognition cameras are set to be installed in some North Somerset bus lanes.

ANPR (Automatic number plate recognition) cameras will initially be installed at the A38 Barrow Gurney and A370 Brockley Combe junctions, coming into use from Monday, March 31.

For six months from then, any drivers caught on camera using the bus lanes at these locations will receive a warning notice for a first offence.

Motorists found misusing the bus lanes after this first six months, or after committing a first offence, will receive a £70 penalty charge notice – reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.

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“Motorists who misuse bus lanes pose a safety risk to others and risk delaying bus passengers,” a council spokesperson said.

“ANPR cameras automatically detect and capture the number plates of vehicles using bus lanes illegally.

“Images are checked by trained review officers, and a penalty issued to the keeper or owner, if their vehicle has not been pre-authorised to use a particular bus lane.”

The bus lanes at the A38 Barrow Gurney, Bridgwater Road junction, and the A370 Brockley Combe crossroads junction, can be legally used by buses, school buses, cyclists, motorcycles and hackney carriages.

Buses are classified as a vehicle with at least one driver and eight passenger seats. Private hire vehicles are not authorised to use the bus lanes.

Cllr Hannah Young, executive member for transport and highways, said: “The vast majority of motorists do follow the rules but there is a minority who drive in bus lanes, which poses a safety risk to other road users and can delay the buses.

“The ANPR cameras will help us to enforce the legal highway restrictions, and any surplus revenue raised will be reinvested in our public transport and roads for the benefit of all.”