In May 1996 one along Milton Road to Mitcham's Corner was constructed, one of the worst stretches during the rush hour. This was after a number of years of delay, mainly over protection for the mature trees lining the verges. As with most bus lanes, it's failed to deter motorists from using it - in this case mostly to park in it. Engineers hope it'll save buses 12 minutes but so far 7 seems to be the realistic figure. Taxis and private hire cars are now allowed to use bus lanes and there's pressure for motorbikes too.
Cyclists always lose out in such compromises.
Buses with traffic light controls The County Council employed a consultant to determine if buses could be fitted with signalling devices to change traffic lights green as they approach. The county council would pay for the sensors on traffic lights. The Bridge Street closure uses such technology. Another idea for encouraging bus use is that bus stops could have electronic timetable displays, with schedules on the Internet. The LibDems are proposing a network of tramways, to be paid for by developers as part of planning consent.