New bus routes go live at Victoria Gateway

Bus operators have agreed that their vehicles will start using the new area outside Southend Victoria railway station from 10am.

Buses travelling south down Victoria Avenue will enter the area outside the station and stop to drop off and collect passengers before exiting towards Chichester Road.

Those heading towards Victoria Avenue from the southern end of town will follow the same route in reverse.

Bus drivers are aware that the shared space outside the railway stations is also crossed by taxis, cyclists and pedestrians and will exercise particular caution when using the new lanes.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Road Safety Team will be present outside the railway station to raise awareness and monitor the new bus routes in operation to ensure the new arrangements are as safe as possible.

The new bus lanes, which have been marked out using large circular stone bollards and distinctive paving, are already being used by taxi drivers.