DfT in u-turn over motorbikes in bus lanes

Motorcycles will not be allowed to use bus lanes after the Department for Transport shelved plans – despite overwhelming support for the initiative.

Extensive consultation found that of more than 14,000 people surveyed, nearly 13,900 respondents supported the measure to grant motorcycles and mopeds default access to bus lanes.

That’s an acceptance rate of 98%. A further 93% of organisations also support the measure.

Despite this, the DfT has declared it has "no policy to encourage greater uptake of motorcycles" and will not proceed with plans for two-wheelers to be granted bus lane access.

Tony Campbell is CEO of trade body the Motor Cycle Industry Association. He called the decision "as shocking as it is disappointing."

He believes that by rejecting default bus lane access, the government has hindered the transition to lighter vehicles, sending a confusing and discouraging message.

The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) says the decision flies in the face of clear evidence and overwhelming public support while contradicting years of work promoting powered light vehicles as a sustainable transport solution.

Motorcycles and mopeds help reduce congestion, lower emissions and ease pressure on road networks, says the MCIA. It claims that granting them bus lane access would not only have improved safety for new riders, but also boosted the appeal of motorcycles over cars and vans.

"The DfT’s decision, citing a lack of evidence on safety benefits, leaves no plans to revisit or further investigate the policy," says Campbell.

The DfT previously acknowledged the potential of motorcycles to shorten journey times, reduce congestion and deliver meaningful environmental benefits.

“We urge the government to reconsider its approach and adopt measures that make these vehicles a practical and attractive choice, ensuring the play a pivotal role in Britian’s sustainable transport future," says the MCIA.