Plans for a new bus hub in Derby face hurdles as concerns about delays and infrastructure support emerge from local operators and officials.
Derby: The new bus hub in Boulton Moor is stirring up some worries. It’s meant to replace an old park-and-ride plan that didn’t pan out. Now, they’re looking at automatic number-plate recognition for parking, which has some folks scratching their heads.
Bus operators are a bit anxious. They think diverting their routes could lead to delays. But they do like the idea of better connections to their current services. The hub will be located near Shardlow Road and Chellaston Lane, right by the A6 Thulston Roundabout.
If the South Derbyshire District Council gives the green light, the hub will have 30 parking spots, including charging points for electric vehicles. There will also be a bus stop with live updates on bus arrivals and travel times to key spots. Plus, they’re planning for bike stands and future charging for e-bikes and scooters.
This hub is part of a bigger plan for Boulton Moor, which is seeing 2,600 new homes built. There will be shops, a petrol station, and even a supermarket. But some local councillors are worried. They feel the infrastructure isn’t keeping up with all the new homes. They wanted a big park-and-ride, but that idea got scrapped.
When the outline approval came through in 2022, there were rules against using the automatic number plate recognition system. Now, they’re saying the parking will be monitored to prevent unauthorized use. Visitors will need a valid permit or pay to park, and they’ll get free bus rides into Derby.
They’re also making sure electric vehicle bays are used properly. They’ll have cameras to check that only charging vehicles park there. The plan includes a petrol station and charging site, too, which will be built later.
A bus route started in September, stopping every 20 minutes during busy times. But there’s some back and forth about whether bus operators want to change their routes to serve the new hub. Arriva says they’re on board with improving bus stops nearby, while Trentbarton is still considering their options.
It’s a lot to unpack, and everyone’s hoping for a smooth ride ahead with this new transport hub.
