SPT is proud to support the ‘Don’t Be a Bus Blocker’ campaign and promote its' return with a clear message – don’t park in bus lanes or at bus stops. When drivers do, it causes delays, disrupts boarding, and makes journeys more difficult for the passengers who rely on buses every day.

And by expanding the campaign across Glasgow City Region this time round, the aim is to improve service reliability, helping buses run on time and remain a convenient travel choice.

Backed by Transport Scotland’s Bus Infrastructure Fund and supported by ourselves, local bus operators and the Glasgow City Region Bus Partnership, this united effort is about creating a transport system that is efficient, accessible, and more welcoming for everyone.

Whether the passenger is a wheelchair user, an older adult, or a parent with a pram - blocked bus stops can make boarding difficult - or even impossible. And when cars park in bus lanes, they don’t just delay buses, they can also increase the risk of accidents.

The Don’t Be a Bus Blocker initiative will run throughout January and February, with bus operators carrying the campaign on their vehicles, SPT extending the messaging to selected bus shelters, and further promotion delivered across social media.

A series of radio adverts - supported by Glasgow City Region local authorities and Transport Scotland, will also air to engage with drivers and reinforce the campaign message where it matters most.

Bus operators are also being encouraged to report recurring parking issues that affect service punctuality or passenger access.

By keeping bus lanes and stops clear, the campaign aims to encourage more people to choose public transport - cutting congestion, improving air quality, and making the City Region’s bus network work better for everyone.

Cllr Angus Millar, City Convener for Transport and Climate, backs the behaviour change campaign saying: “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. We're asking everybody to think about the impact of their parking choices on others and support the smooth running of our city's bus network” 

George Hazel, Chair of the Glasgow City Region Bus Partnership said “Reliable, accessible services are key to making bus travel the first choice for people who live, work or visit the City Region. When bus stops and bus lanes are blocked, every delay ripples through the network. By keeping these spaces clear for buses, other drivers can help create a transport system that works for everyone - faster, more dependable, and better for the City Region.”

Greig MacKay, Director for Scotland at Bus Users UK - a registered charity dedicated to promoting inclusive and accessible public transport, added: “When a vehicle blocks a bus stop, it’s not just an inconvenience - it’s a barrier. It can mean missed appointments, longer commutes, and real challenges for people who rely on step-free access to board the bus. We strongly support this behaviour change campaign and urge drivers to consider the real impact their parking choices have on others. Together, we can create safer, more accessible bus services for everyone.”

The Don’t Be a Bus Blocker campaign, first launched in Spring 2024, is returning as part of the City Region’s continued commitment to improving public transport and promoting sustainable travel.

Drivers who ignore parking rules risk receiving a £100 Penalty Charge Notice. They also run the risk of their vehicle being impounded which carries a £190 release fee and potential storage charges on top of the original penalty charge.

For more information, visit glasgow.gov.uk/dontbeabusblocker