Request ID: FOI-1390-2324 Date published: 23 August 2023
You asked
To TfL
Please can you let me know if TfL have granted permission for bus 15 operator Go Ahead to use the first bus stop as a stand on a regular basis at Trafalgar Square.
The 15 Bus stand is at Northamerland Avenue and bus 15 drivers are waiting at the first stop blocking other bus routes to serve along side the Co-Op who is making delivery between the two stops at the strand going towards Blackwall.
Having ask the bus drivers on 15, they said that their service controllers instruct to stand at Trafalgar Strand instead of Northamerland to "save time" even where the road is not closed and is available. Furthermore informed that because the route is up for "tender" they are instructing drivers to stand there so that they depart on time without having to go to the stand.
If there is a stand available they should use it regardless if this will cause delay. It is not fair on traveling public to be obstructed by two buses parked up and not being able to board the bus from the pavement and risk injury.
I can understand only if the road is closed but because the route will or might be delayed this is not fair on us passangers alternatives should be sought to park elsewhere two huge buses.
Please confirm if TfL are granting permission to operators or if Bus Operators are allowed to do this on their own will or should buses use stand even if they are delayed.
I know buses must not wait for more than. 2 minutes at a bus stop so why do they have an exception?
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-1390-2324
Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on31 July 2023 asking for information about bus stops.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require.
TfL has not authorised buses on Route 15 to stand at their first stop and depart from there. The buses should be standing at an authorised Stand and moving to their first stop when they are ready for passengers to board.
If this is not the information you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact me.
If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely,
Mary Abidakun FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
