Drivers warned of instant £70 fine for using bus gate in major UK city - 'It's a trap!'

But between April 1 and September 29, the council issued 5,072 fines to motorists who contravened the new traffic regulations.

The standard fine is £70, which is reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days or challenged through an appeal process.

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The bus gate, which gives priority to buses travelling along Holmeside through to Vine Place, was brought in as part of a broader initiative to improve public transport infrastructure and improve safety in the city centre.

The council confirmed it had received appeals in 686 cases, although the outcomes are currently unknown.

Speaking to GB News, the council said: "The Bus Gate cameras at Holmeside were put in place to improve road safety, improve bus journey times, and help to ensure that more road users follow the rules and regulations that are necessary when out on our roads and highways.

"Using public transport like buses is a more sustainable way to get around, and by helping to improve punctuality and journey times, we help make buses a more attractive choice for residents and visitors, and we contribute to lowering carbon emissions. Any income generated by bus lane PCNs from cameras can only be used for further works on highways, public transport and environmental projects."

The traffic changes at Holmesideform part of broader plans to improve the city's transport infrastructure.

A new gyratory system, a junction that is similar to a roundabout, has been implemented, turning traffic from Holmeside onto Maritime Street, with a new road link created through the former Peacock's store site to Brougham Street next to The Bridges shopping centre.

The new traffic system has also created a clockwise roundabout with Maritime Street, Brougham Street and Waterloo Place now operating as one-way streets. This change returns traffic to Holmeside in an easterly direction.

The enforcement cameras, which use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, went live on March 18 but had a two-week grace period before fines were issued on April 1.

Drivers who disagreed with the notices were given the chance to appeal, with full details of the process included on the issued PCNs.

The council emphasises that the enforcement aims to encourage compliance with traffic regulations rather than generate revenue. However, the substantial sum collected in fines highlights the impact on drivers adjusting to the new system.

As the enforcement continues, motorists are advised to familiarise themselves with the new traffic flow in Sunderland city centre to avoid penalties.

The fines have been met with fury by drivers who have accused the council of setting up a “trap to catch unaware drivers”.

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One person shared on social media: “It’s a trap! Visitors to the fine city of Sunderland who turn left onto Borough Rd and along Holmside towards Park Lane/Vine Place can easily wander into an apparent dead-end and find it difficult to turn back or escape through the side streets.

“There is no apparent or obvious one-way system to avoid the bus gate. Clearer road markings and warning signs are needed.”