A burst water main has temporarily halted the enforcement of fines for motorists using the Mill Road bridge bus gate in Cambridge. Originally, drivers who ignored the restrictions were set to face penalties starting Tuesday. However, due to emergency repair work, enforcement has been postponed.
Why the Delay?
The Mill Road bridge bus gate restricts access to motor vehicles, allowing only buses, emergency services, taxis, and registered blue badge holders. The enforcement of fines was scheduled to begin after an adjustment period for drivers.
However, Cambridgeshire County Council announced that the bus gate cameras would be disabled while a utility company carries out repairs on a burst water main. To manage traffic during the work, vehicles are being diverted over the bridge, making enforcement impractical.
When Will Fines Start?
The repair work is expected to be completed by Wednesday. Once finished, the council will resume enforcement of the restrictions, issuing penalty charge notices (PCNs) to non-exempt vehicles caught on camera.
What Drivers Need to Know
The council has taken a phased approach to enforcement, initially sending warnings to motorists who breached the rules.
Nobody wants to be fining people, which is why we introduced the restriction in a measured way.
Neil Shailer, vice-chair of the highways and transport committee
For those eligible for exemptions—such as blue badge holders—registration is required via the council’s website. The council has also reached out to over 360 local care providers to ensure care workers making home visits in the Mill Road area can apply for exemptions.
No Physical Barrier – But Fines Will Apply
Like other bus gates in Cambridge, there is no physical barrier preventing unauthorised traffic from crossing the bridge. However, once enforcement resumes, non-exempt vehicles will be subject to fines.
Motorists should stay updated on the latest developments and ensure compliance to avoid penalties. For more information on exemptions and enforcement, visit the Cambridgeshire County Council website.
