About this bus lane
Both marked bus lane sections on the Strand are recorded as not currently in operation in TfL's bus lane database (February 2026) — the eastern end of the Strand was pedestrianised as part of the Strand Aldwych scheme. Always follow current signage.
Other lanes recorded the same way in that dataset are left on this site as restrictions of unknown hours, because the record alone does not prove a lane is switched off; the Strand is stated as not operating because the closure is independently documented.
Who can use it
- Buses
- Black cabs (hackney carriages)
- Motorcycles
- Pedal cycles
Not permitted
- Cars
- Vans
- Lorries
- Private hire vehicles
Where exactly is it?
Strand, London WC2. Open the exact location in Google Maps → Pin from Transport for London's own bus lane dataset.
Got a PCN from this camera?
Don't panic, and don't ignore it. Pay £80 within 14 days to halve the charge — or if the signage was unclear, the details are wrong, or you had a genuine reason to be in the lane, consider challenging it first. Our step-by-step appeal guide covers the grounds that actually win.
Frequently asked questions
What are the operating times of the Strand bus lane?
Westminster City Council's published record gives the operating times of the Strand Bus Lane in Westminster as “Not currently in operation” rather than a single time range, so the sign at the start of the lane is the definitive source.
How much is the fine for driving through the Strand bus lane?
Westminster City Council issues a Penalty Charge Notice of £160, reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days. There are no penalty points — it is a civil penalty.
Who is allowed to use the Strand bus lane?
Buses, black cabs (hackney carriages), motorcycles and pedal cycles are permitted. Not permitted: cars, vans, lorries and private hire vehicles.
Can I appeal a PCN from the Strand bus lane?
Yes, and it costs nothing. Make formal representations to Westminster City Council first — the authority that issued the PCN has to consider them before it can enforce the penalty. If Westminster City Council rejects them it must issue a Notice of Rejection, and you can then appeal free to the Environment and Traffic Adjudicators at London Tribunals. Its adjudicators are lawyers independent of the enforcing authority, and their decision is binding on both sides. The grounds that win here are that your vehicle was not in the bus lane during its operating times shown above, that it was an exempt vehicle, or that the signage did not make the restriction clear. Note that paying the £80 discounted rate accepts liability and closes the case, so challenge before you pay.