In Calderdale we have several 'bus lanes'. It is a moving traffic offence if you travel through a bus lane/gate during the hours of operation. At the moment, this is enforced by the police.
We have powers to enforce bus lanes through use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. This is under Section 144 of the Transport Act 2000.
In early 2026, we will bring in this type of camera enforcement at seven key locations.
The scheme was approved by Cabinet in January 2025.
It will:
- Support wider changes coming to West Yorkshire's transport system, which includes the new public control of buses from 2027.
- Align with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority's (WYCA) Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).
- Contributes to our climate and transport strategies.
Benefits of the change
- Bus services will be more reliable.
- Improve journey times for public transport services.
- Improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Allows Police to focus on other priorities.
- Encourage greater use of public transport, reduced congestion and pollution.
When this will start
At most locations, we expect this to be from early 2026.
Note: There will be a warning period before fines start to be issued.
Why councils will do this instead of the police
In most parts of the country, the police do not regularly enforce moving traffic offences, such as bus lane misuse.
There is evidence to show that when councils enforce this it improves compliance. It also helps the Police focus on other priorities.
How offences will be enforced
The Government have guidelines that regulate how we must enforce the offences. ANPR cameras will be installed to monitor compliance with fines issued for offences, which will be:
- Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) compliant;
- and installed at the sites to be enforced.
Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) will be issued via post to the 'Registered Keeper' of the vehicle.
Challenge a PCN
- Details of how to do this will be on the PCN that is issued.
- This must be in writing and within the timescales set out on the PCN.
What the income will be used for
- To cover the cost of enforcement.
- Any surplus will be spent on:
- Public transport provision.
- Highway improvement projects.
- Environmental improvements in Calderdale.
Locations/sites
Current
| Name | Allowed | Type | Hours of operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| (A629) Skircoat Road, Halifax. (inbound) | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane |
|
| (A629) Huddersfield Road, Halifax. (outbound) | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane |
|
| (A646) Burnley Road, Trimingham. | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane |
|
| (A646) Burnley Road, King Cross. | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane | 24 hours |
| (A6026) Wakefield Road/Stainland Road, Halifax. | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane/gate | 24 hours |
| (A629) Huddersfield Road (Ainley Top). | Buses, Hackney Carriages (not private hire, motorcycles and cycles. | Bus lane | 24 hours |
Future
| Name | Allowed | Type | Hours of operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainland Road, Halifax. | To be confirmed | Bus lane/gate | To be confirmed |
| Winding Road, Halifax. | To be confirmed | Bus gate | To be confirmed |
About changes
How we let you know
Under our statutory duties, we must notify road users and nearby properties of the changes.
Properties near enforcement locations have been informed by letter.
How you can let us know
If you have concerns or comments about changes and how they might impact your work or travel:
- Email: MTE.Consultation@calderdale.gov.uk.
- Deadline: Friday 21st December 2025.