Drivers warned of ‘war on motorists’ by Sadiq Khan amid revenue raising cycle lane fines

The laws were introduced by the Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan in 2022 to make roads safer for cyclists.

The rules dictate that if any motorists drive within, or crosses, the solid white lines of cycle lanes and cycle tracks on major roads across the capital.

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Transport for London detailed: “Cycle lanes are vital in keeping people cycling separated from most motor traffic, reducing the risk of collisions, new powers to help make cycling safer cause death and serious injury.

“Tackling non-compliant drivers will help improve safety and the confidence of cyclists. Road danger remains a barrier to people walking and cycling more, with more than half of Londoners choosing not to cycle because of concerns over traffic.”

TfL added that the enforcement powers aim to protect designated space for cyclists and make the capital’s roads “more attractive” for people to cycle on.

However, many drivers have been unhappy with the changes with some flagging how it's another “war on motorists” and attempt to “unfairly” fine them.

In response, last month the Department for Transport called on drivers to respond to a consultation on whether the current traffic enforcement measures are fair to drivers.

The Transport Secretary Mark Harper explained that it has seen a rise in drivers being fined by councils in relation to traffic restrictions.

These include travelling in no entry areas, no left/no right turn, prohibited vehicles, unlawful entry into box junctions and driving in mandatory cycle lanes.

Harper said: “Enforcement must be undertaken proportionately and not used as a means to raise revenue.”

Will Norman, London's walking and cycling commissioner, said the move makes London's streets safer.

These enforcements will also deter motorists from “infringing on crucial space” specifically designated to keep cyclists safe.

On top of cycle lanes, cyclists can also travel in bus lanes, but a recent proposal looked at whether motorcyclists should also be allowed to enter the lane.

The consultation follows a petition which received over 11,000 signatures having opened in March 17.

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Guy Opperman, Minister for Roads and Local Transport said: “Amending this could lead to many positive benefits including shorter journey times for those on motorcycles and less congestion for motorists in normal lanes, all while potentially having little impact on bus journeys.”