Taxi drivers in Belfast are calling for access to bus lanes to alleviate severe traffic congestion plaguing the city. With lengthy delays reported, especially during peak hours, taxi associations are urging the government to reconsider current restrictions. Public opinion appears to favor the proposal, with many residents eager for traffic improvements.
Belfast 's cab drivers have again called for access to bus lanes to help ease the city's severe traffic problems. Drivers are reporting long delays, especially during evening rush hour, and taxi associations are pushing for a change in the current restrictions. Belfast Live readers are largely supportive of the idea as they desperately want to see traffic improve.
Earlier this week, the Licensed Taxi Operators Association (LTOA) voiced their frustration after Stormont's infrastructure Minister said plans to let taxis into certain bus lanes won't start until after Christmas at the earliest. Belfast has been struggling with intense traffic problems in recent months due to various factors including disruptions from the new Grand Central Station developments, ongoing roadworks, and increased traffic as weather conditions worsen and more people return to commuting. The LTOA admits that allowing Class A taxis to use bus lanes won't completely solve traffic issues, but it will definitely help. They say, 'Long term, the best solutions are to reduce the number of private vehicles using the city and to improve and expand public transport – two effective initiatives, but ones which will take time, money and willingness to implement – the city needs help now.' During a recent Assembly session, Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd acknowledged the significant delays affecting car journey times within the city centre. He also encouraged the public to explore alternative travel options. Speaking to MLAs, Mr O’Dowd said he had previously warned the public about potential traffic issues due to road and infrastructure works. He added that a strategic oversight group, including the PSNI and Translink, has been set up to look into ways of reducing congestion during peak hours. Commenter Dooter thinks: “The last thing they want to do is allow taxis into the bus lanes
Traffic Bus Lanes Taxi Drivers Belfast Congestion
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