A TOTAL of 96 motorists have been issued with fines for using the Torun Way bus gate, which came into operation in September.

The long-awaited bus gate was installed as part of the Priory Vale development but did not officially open until more than a year after the markings and signage were put in place.

But, after concerns from residents and local councillors, North Swindon Neighbourhood Policing Team has been monitoring the bus gate for the past few months.

A spokesman for North Swindon NPT said: “Though officers are aware that there are mixed feelings locally about this restricted route between Haydon End/Taw Hill and Haydon Wick, the NPT has received many complaints about drivers speeding through the bus gate, and has responded to fears that there may be an accident.

“As a result this year 96 drivers have been issued with £30 fines for using the bus gate.

“One driver was found to be speeding, one was caught using a mobile phone whilst driving, and another motorist had bald tyres on their vehicle – these individuals were all given £60 tickets and three points on their license.”

Swindon Council recently announced it will be buying mobile cameras to monitor this bus gate and the other bus lanes across Priory Vale and Swindon.