CAMERAS are being installed on bus lanes across the city this month in a bid to catch motorists using them illegally.

Southampton City Council has announced plans to install cameras in lanes throughout Southampton and warns motorists caught driving in them will be at risk receiving a fine.

The new cameras will operate 24/7 but the council has not yet revealed how much the installations will cost.

Police can already prosecute drivers who use bus lanes but are not able to monitor bus lanes all the time.

Now drivers caught on camera could be fined up to £60, or reduce the fine to £30 if they pay in 14 days.

Daily Echo: New city council leader Cllr Jacqui RaymentCllr Jacqui Rayment

Councillor Jacqui Rayment, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: "We hope that by using cameras we will quickly change driver’s behaviour and improve the safety and flow of bus lanes. This is not a profit making exercise but a way of improving sustainable travel around the city. Any income will be reinvested to make improvements to roads and transport in the city."

The only vehicles allowed to use the bus lanes are buses, taxis, private licensed hire vehicles, bicycles and emergency service vehicles.

The council has urged drivers to remember that bus lanes are there to make buses quicker and reduce journey times.

Chiefs hope the camera initiative will encourage more people to use buses, helping reduce congestion and improve air quality in the city.

The advice from the council is to observe the bus lane restriction and avoid the possibility of receiving a penalty charge notice.

The authority has confirmed they will be allowing motorists a grace period and anyone caught breaking the rules in that time will receive a warning letter instead of a charge notice.

But repeat offenders will receive a fine.

Andrew Wickham Managing Director Bluestar and Unilink said: "Unauthorised vehicles using bus lanes have a real impact on our services. They cause delays and can prevent customers from being able to get on and off safely at bus stops. We welcome Southampton City Council's decision to commence bus lane camera enforcement.”

Marc Reddy Managing Director First Hampshire, Dorset & Berkshire added: “Bus lanes are vital to us. The cameras will assist us in getting our passengers where they want to go on time. Keeping the bus lanes moving is essential for the economic and social life of the city.”