Edinburgh bus lane cameras cut down by vandals after attacks on controversial traffic gate

Two bus lane camera poles have been cut down in Edinburgh just months after a controversial traffic gate was sliced in two.

Vandals targeted the cameras on South Gyle Broadway and Murrayfield Gardens overnight on Monday in what has been described as “reckless criminal behaviour”.

The cameras were installed by the City of Edinburgh Council to monitor vehicles entering the bus lane with anyone caught driving in it when not allowed issued with a £60 fine.

Both cameras have been left out of operation with the council warning that taxpayers will now have to cover the cost of repairs.

The incident follows a similar attack on a camera pole on Manse Road and St John’s Road in Corstorphine.

The trial bus gate camera was sliced in two in July last year in protest over its introduction. Under council rules, only buses are allowed to use the road between 8am to 10am and 2.45pm to 6.30pm between Monday and Friday.

Other incidents included paint being thrown on the signs and graffiti in the street.

Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener, said: “This is a selfish, cowardly and dangerous act. Bus lane enforcement is essential for making sure journey times are quick and reliable for the 2 million passengers who rely on the buses every week in Edinburgh, particularly during busy peak hours.

“The type of reckless criminal behaviour carried out on South Gyle Broadway and in Roseburn is unacceptable, whatever you think of these measures. This damage to council property is shameful and not only does it cost the taxpayer to repair but causes disruption for all those who use this route.

“I know the Police are already looking into this matter, and we’ll be speaking to them as investigations continue. I’d urge anyone who knows who may be involved in this criminal act to reach out to the Police, and I hope those responsible are promptly brought to justice.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Shortly after 12.30am on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, we were called to reports of vandalisms to posts on South Gyle Broadway and Murrayfield Gardens, Edinburgh.

“Enquiries are ongoing.