Bus-only lanes are a key part of Rapid Transit. They create a dedicated space on the road for buses, separating them from regular traffic. This helps buses avoid congestion, reduce delays and get riders to their destinations faster.

Rapid Transit corridors are designed differently depending on the street. In some areas, bus lanes are located along the curb. In others, they run in the centre of the road, which means drivers and buses will share the road differently than they do today. Both designs help buses move through the city faster by giving them more space to travel and fewer delays.

Types of bus lanes in London

Curbside-running bus lanes (beside the curb)

These bus lanes are located along the right side of the road next to the curb. Buses travel alongside regular traffic, but in their own lane. Drivers may only enter the bus lane where signs and pavement markings allow, such as for right turns or driveway access.

Image
Curbside road configuration
Centre-running bus lanes (middle of the road)

These bus lanes run down the middle of the road, with regular traffic travelling on either side. Buses stop at platforms in the centre of the street, and drivers must never enter or cross the bus lanes.

Image
Above: A graphic showing the centre-running road configuration, with bus-only lanes in the centre of the road and regular traffic lanes on either side.

How different bus lanes work and the features that make up Rapid Transit