Portswood Bus Gate Trial Scrapped – A Win for Residents
The controversial Portswood Bus Gate trial is being scrapped, marking a significant victory for local residents, businesses, and campaigners who have voiced opposition for months. The decision, announced by Southampton’s Labour-run council, follows sustained community pressure and criticism of the scheme’s design, impact, and lack of public engagement.
The Liberal Democrats, who opposed the trial from the outset, welcomed the decision and reaffirmed their commitment to better public transport and active travel – but with solutions that work for communities, not against them.
“It was clear from the start that the scheme was poorly thought through and once implemented it was actually worse than predicted," said Cllr Thomas Gravatt, Liberal Democrat councillor for Swaythling.
"We will keep pushing the Labour-run council to actually listen to residents regarding changes to our city – rather than forcing through their plans without public support. The trial being scrapped is a victory for common sense.”
The trial, which restricted vehicle access on a key section of Portswood Road to prioritise buses and active travel, quickly drew criticism for diverting traffic into nearby residential streets, harming local businesses, and creating access issues for the elderly and disabled.
Liberal Democrat councillors supported local residents from day one, helping to amplify concerns through petitions, public meetings, and media engagement. They also proposed a fully costed Park & Ride network as part of their alternative city budget – a plan aimed at reducing congestion and improving air quality through positive infrastructure, not punitive restrictions.
“We’ve been clear from the start: Southampton needs a better, fairer transport strategy,” said Cllr Sam Chapman, Liberal Democrat councillor for Bassett. “Our Park & Ride proposal would provide people with a realistic alternative to car use – something Labour’s scheme never offered.”
Looking ahead, the Liberal Democrats continue to call for:
- A proper, city-wide transport plan
- Meaningful investment in bus services and active travel
- Genuine public consultation on future projects
“This isn’t the end of the conversation,” added Cllr Chapman. “We still need a sustainable transport system – but it must be built with residents, not imposed upon them.”
Residents who want to help shape a better future for the city are encouraged to get involved with local Liberal Democrat campaigns.