CAMERA enforcement is to be carried out at a bus and taxi only route which is increasingly being abused by motorists.

Bournemouth council plans to install cameras at Coach House Place, which connects Lansdowne Road to the travel interchange, to deter motorists who use it as a cut-through.

But they are determined not to make the same mistake they did three years ago, when they installed a camera at a temporary bus lane in Kings Park. Then, 4,400 fines were issued in just three months and angry motorists complained of unclear and confusing signage.

Fifty motorists took their case to appeal and an adjudicator agreed the signs were unclear and overturned their fines. The council came under pressure to refund every motorist who had paid their fine, which it refused to do.

This time, council officers are making Coach House Place an official ‘bus gate,’ which should ensure “unequivocal enforcement measures.”

It is not known when the camera enforcement will start but it is likely to be before Christmas.

Ian Kalra, transportation services manager, said: “The road is increasingly being used by motorists as a through route which has resulted in numerous complaints from the bus companies and other motorists. It is important that this route is retained for taxi and bus traffic only, who use this route frequently when travelling to and from the Interchange.

“To prevent other motorists from using this route we are installing enforcement cameras at the site to act as a deterrent. Before the cameras are in use, clear signage will be on display to advise motorists.”

Cllr Michael Filer, cabinet member for transport, said: “Nearly 100 per cent of motorists abide by the rules but the others are causing trouble for pedestrians, buses and for themselves.

“This is simply closing a loophole.”