A new bus lane has been announced in Lewisham with hopes to boost reliability for passengers - but there are also concerns about congestion for drivers in cars.

Transport for London (TfL) has announced a new bus lane scheme set to launch on Bromley Road (A21), aiming to enhance public transport efficiency and road safety.

Plans include the construction of a 1,060-metre dedicated bus lane between the junctions of Bellingham Road and Downham Way, complemented by an upgrade from single to double red lines along the route to prevent stopping and ensure smooth bus travel.

TfL’s goal is to boost reliability for bus passengers, allowing buses to bypass slower-moving traffic and ultimately improving journey times.

The scheme aligns with the Mayor’s Vision Zero initiative, which seeks to eliminate fatal and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041, in part by offering a safer space for vulnerable road users.

This includes cyclists and motorcyclists who will also be permitted to use the bus lanes.

Eleven bus routes 136, 171, 181, 199, 208, 320, 47, 54, 660, N136, and N199, are expected to benefit from quicker travel times under the new scheme.

There are no route changes expected.

The lane improvements will support taxi services by reducing journey times through a faster-moving corridor.

The new bus lane could bring varied impacts for other road users. While motorists may see some congestion during peak times, the lane is designed to minimise disruption for drivers of cars, vans, and HGVs.

TfL claims that motorcyclists and cyclists are set to benefit directly from access to the bus lanes, with added safety and quicker journeys compared to sharing lanes with general traffic.

Construction of the bus lane is expected to begin in spring 2025 and will last six to eight weeks.

TfL claims it will with residents throughout the project, providing updates and addressing questions about the changes.