Commuter Chaos: Bus Blocking causes Problems for Drivers and Pedestrians

By Rhys Livingstone

By Teddy O via Unsplash

Illegal parking in bus stops and lanes is a big problem for commuters because of the number of stoppages there is in a bus journey 

The “Don't Be a Bus Blocker” campaign will run throughout January and February 2026, with bus operators advertising the campaign on their vehicles. 

Supported by local bus operators, SPT and the Glasgow City Region Bus Partnership, these companies are on the hunt to keep bus lanes and stops clear. 

The campaign aims to support more people to choose public transport, cutting congestion and making the City Region's bus network work smoothly for everyone.  

Cllr Angus Millar, City Convener for Transport, said: "Problem parking which blocks bus stops and bus lanes doesn't just delay services, it can create real issues for passengers, especially those with mobility challenges.  

“The Don't Be a Bus Blocker campaign is about making our streets safer, our buses more reliable, and encouraging more people to choose public transport."  

The campaign has already been launched previously in Spring 2024, and it must be launched again; this is because of the continuity of people parking in bus areas. 

Greig MacKay, Director for Scotland at Bus Users UK, said: "When a vehicle blocks a bus stop, it's not just an inconvenience - it's a barrier.  

“It can mean missed appointments and real challenges for people who rely on step-free access to board the bus.” 

It’s an offence to park in a marked bay for busses, and drivers who ignore these rules may receive a £100 Penalty Charge Notice.  

They also have a high risk of their vehicle being taking to the impound, which carries a £190 fee just to release the car and potential other charges on top of that.