Your views on the proposed new inbound bus lane on Hardwick Road
Feedback updated 18 Sep 2025
We asked
In summer 2025 we asked for feedback on proposed changes to the A149 Hardwick Road which would see an inbound bus lane added.
You said
- Concerns about increased congestion
Several respondents to the consultation expressed concerns that the proposed bus lane could worsen existing traffic congestion in the area.
- Limited public transport alternatives
A number of respondents highlighted that there are few, if any, bus services available that would serve as viable alternatives to their current journeys. As a result, they felt the bus lane would not significantly encourage a shift toward more sustainable transport options.
- Strong support from specific user groups
The consultation data shows a high level of support for the proposal, particularly among taxi and private hire drivers. Many of these respondents indicated their support is conditional on being permitted to use the bus lane.
We did
On point number 1, we are currently awaiting further traffic modelling, so we are fully and better able to understand the potential impact on general traffic. This new data will be taken into account when assessing how to progress with the project.
On point number 2, we have worked with local bus companies who are in support of the proposals. Lynx Bus posted on social media during the consultation that they thought the introduction of a dedicated bus lane could lead to “a significant reduction in journey times for our customers, particularly at peak time”. And that providing dedicated road space to buses “helps make bus services more attractive [to road users].” And that the reduction in journey times, increases in bus speed and subsequent improvement in punctuality would from these measures could lead to increased passenger numbers which in turn could potentially enable Lynx to “offer more services in future.”
On point 3, the allowed use of any bus lane built will be assessed during the TRO process.
No final decision on this project has yet been made and any physical works associated with the project are unlikely to begin before Spring 2026. This timeframe is subject to both internal approvals and the successful completion of the formal Traffic Regulation Order process.
Overview
Consultation on a new inbound bus lane on Hardwick Road
Norfolk County Council is asking for feedback on proposed changes to the A149 Hardwick Road which would see an inbound bus lane added. The aim of the scheme is to improve bus journey times and reliability by reducing congestion at existing pinch points.
This project is part of a series of improvements we are making in the county, called the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). It’s aimed at improving bus services across our public transport network. We are using funding awarded to us by the Department for Transport to improve accessibility on our bus network and invest in infrastructure at strategic locations, relieving specific areas of congestion that affect buses so we can deliver better, more punctual services.
At present, there are delays for buses from the A47 Hardwick Roundabout to Southgate’s Roundabout, particularly at peak times, the traffic is congested and there are long queues.
Following extensive traffic modelling it has been shown that by providing a short length of bus lane from, approximately, the railway bridge to Horsley’s Fields would help to alleviate these issues. This solution provides similar benefits to a longer bus lane but with less disruption during construction.
The documents below detail exactly what we’re proposing and why and the accompanying plan shows what the project could look like on the ground.
After reviewing the proposals below please answer the questions in the online survey on the following page.
What happens next
The deadline for comments is Monday 21 July and we will carefully consider all responses ahead of advertisement of the formal Traffic Regulation Orders needed to deliver the project. The webpage above will be kept up to date with the latest progress and information.
The project webpage www.norfolk.gov.uk/hardwickroad will be kept up to date with the latest progress and information.
Areas
- All Areas
Audiences
- Anyone from any background
Interests
- Environment
- Planning
- Traffic and transportation
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