New enforcement of bus lanes across West Northamptonshire

West Northamptonshire Council is set to step up enforcement of three existing bus lane restrictions to help keep public transport moving and improve safety for all road users.

16 June 2026

The sites are:

• Harlestone Road, Northampton
• Duston Road, Northampton
• Lodge Road, Daventry

Initially, from 22 June, banned vehicles using these lanes will receive a warning for breaching the restrictions. Full enforcement will start on 6 July with Penalty Charge Notices (PCN’s) being issued.

These lanes are reserved for buses and must not be used by other vehicles unless clearly stated on local signage. The Council is reminding drivers to check and follow signs carefully before entering any restricted route.

Cars and other unauthorised vehicles using bus lanes can cause delays to public transport services, disrupting journeys for passengers.

They can also create hazards for pedestrians, cyclists and other road users by increasing congestion and causing unexpected movements in restricted areas.

It is important to note that the restrictions at these locations are not new. Clear signage is already in place, and the routes have been designated for bus use for some time.

This change is about improving compliance with those rules to support safer and more reliable travel.

Councillor Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “These bus lanes are there for a reason.

“They help keep buses running on time and make sure people can rely on public transport. When other vehicles use them unlawfully, it causes delays and can create safety risks for everyone using the road.

“The restrictions have been in place for some time, and we are now focusing on enforcing them more consistently.

“We would encourage all drivers to pay close attention to the signs and only use routes where it is clearly permitted.”

Here’s where to find further information about how the enforcement works, including how to pay or appeal a Penalty Charge Notice.