Government refuse to look into potential safety benefits of default bus lane access for bikers

After previously rejecting calls to allow motorcyclists into bus lanes by default, the Government will not pursue research to determine whether the idea could hold potential safety benefits.

Minister of State at the Department for Transport (DfT), Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill said: “The Department has no plans at present to carry out research into the safety impacts of allowing greater access to bus lanes.”

The announcement follows comments made by Fabian Hamilton, Labour MP for Leeds North East, who recently told MCN: “Labour is not interested in motorcycles” – casting doubt on the likelihood of future parliamentary backing for the two-wheeled sector, raising concerns about continued support for riders and industry advocates alike.

In reply to the Government’s online consultation on default bus lane access for bikers, which ran from March 17 to July 16, 2024, respondents were overwhelmingly supportive of a change – with over 98% in favour of the proposal.

Despite this, the move was rejected, with ministers concluding: “At present, the government has no policy to encourage greater use of motorcycles.

“The safety benefits of allowing motorcycles into bus lanes are not clear at this time,” they continued.

Expressing frustration at the Government’s recent stance, Motorcycle Industry Association Chief Executive Tony Campbell told MCN: “I am incredibly disappointed that the Government has confirmed it will not research whether default bus lane access for mopeds, motorcycles and other powered light vehicles would save lives for vulnerable road users.

“If the reasoning given for not supporting bus lane access is a lack of safety evidence, conducting further research should be a priority for the Government – not just an excuse to dismiss a potentially beneficial policy.

“This decision not only shows a disregard for the safety of powered light vehicle users, but also contradicts the Government’s stated goals for decarbonisation and future mobility.

“I urge the Government to partner with our industry.”