Greg Clark, Member of Parliament for Tunbridge Wells, calls for an urgent re-evaluation of the Mount Pleasant bus scheme and an end to the war on motorists as it emerges that over 50,000 fines have been issued since it was introduced this year.
The Bus Gate along Mount Pleasant, situated between its junctions with Monson Road and Church and Crescent Roads, was introduced to support sustainable transport and reduce air and noise pollution in the town centre. However, despite these good intentions the scheme has caused great confusion amongst motorists and it is becoming clear that many people are now put off from visiting the town centre due to the poorly indicated system.
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have issued a total of 51,537 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) since the enforcement scheme was re-started earlier this year, amounting to over £1,00,000 in fines, as of 5th September 2023, this figure showed no sign of showing down over the following months with still over 100 vehicles going through the enforcement area each day.
Speaking on the issue Greg Clark said:
“This war on motorists by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council must stop.
“I have always been clear that this scheme must not be some form of money-making exercise for the council, however it seems that in its current form this is its only purpose. Over £1million worth of fines in less than a year, and with no signs of slowing down, only further demonstrates that this scheme is confusing and out of place in our town centre.
“The town centre can’t afford to have any more reasons for people not to visit, particularly in the build up to Christmas, one of the busiest periods for shops in the calendar year.
“The money making scheme by the council is flawed as its stated central aim was to reduce pollution and congestion, yet forces longer journeys on many drivers trying to navigate the diversions causing further congestion and pollution and also results in people making dangerous u- turns particularly during rush hour.
“The time has come for the council to tun off the enforcement in front of the Town Hall, refund the fines issued and re-evaluate this scheme.”
