Portsmouth private hire bus lane trial delayed until summer 2022

A trial scheme to allow private hire vehicles to use bus lanes in Portsmouth has been delayed until the summer.

The three-month trial was originally scheduled for late March. But Portsmouth City Council has decided to reschedule it, citing a need to consider the safest approach following changes to the Highway Code.

During the trial, Portsmouth-licenced PHVs would be able to use selected bus lanes in the same way as emergency vehicles, taxis, bikes and rental e-scooters.

Cllr Lynne Stagg, cabinet member for traffic and transportation, said: “Since the trial was given the go ahead there have been changes to the Highway Code that need to be carefully considered. We are committed to making sure this trial is run as safely as possible, and with the most up to date research at our fingertips. For that reason we are writing to other local authorities in the country so we are able to share our collective knowledge and learn from each other.”

“We want to provide easier, greener travel options for everyone in the city, 24 hours a day, with safety at the top of the agenda. We are working closely with users of bus lanes in the city to make sure they are informed and empowered to use the bus lanes in the correct manner. We will continue to meet with them regularly ahead of the new trial date.”