Campaigners demand ban on London's floating bus stops
Over 290 organisations have written to the Prime Minister citing safety concerns for disabled and elderly commuters.
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Disability campaigners have formally requested that the Prime Minister ban and remove all floating bus stops in England. They argue that this type of infrastructure presents a serious safety risk to blind, deaf, and disabled commuters attempting to use public transport.
Floating bus stops, also known as bus stop bypasses, are designed with a dedicated cycle lane positioned between the main pavement and the passenger waiting island. While intended to enhance cyclist safety by separating them from road traffic, critics contend that this arrangement creates a daily danger for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility or sensory impairments, when boarding or alighting buses.
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Concerns over safety and independence
Sarah Gayton, who helped coordinate a letter and protest regarding the issue, stated that individuals with visual or hearing impairments often cannot detect approaching cyclists. She reported that some people have sustained injuries, while others feel their independence has been compromised. Gayton highlighted that over 290 organisations representing blind, deaf, disabled, partially sighted, and elderly individuals have petitioned the Prime Minister to reverse government proposals and remove these stops. She added that the current situation discourages people from using buses, which are a vital transport link for many Londoners, especially those without access to the Tube.
Gary Wiggins, a visually impaired trustee for the Waltham Forest Blind Association, recounted an incident where he was struck by a cyclist while disembarking a bus, mistaking the cycle lane for a pavement. He described being knocked over and subjected to abuse, stating he does not wish to repeat the experience. Adam Gabsi commented that while he understands the need to promote cycling, it should not be at the expense of people feeling unsafe to travel.
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Transport for London's response
Christina Calderato, director of transport strategy and policy at Transport for London (TfL), defended the network's safety record but acknowledged the concerns. She stated that TfL's priority is ensuring safe and competent travel for everyone and mentioned ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and passenger information, such as audio announcements on buses. TfL previously reported that over a three-year period, there were five pedestrian casualties involving cyclists and one with an e-scooter at floating bus stops. This compares to 11,400 pedestrians injured by motor vehicles during the same timeframe. London Assembly figures indicate there were 164 floating bus stops in the capital in 2024.
Calderato also pointed out the presence of zebra crossings between the footway and the bus stop, emphasizing that all road users must stop at these crossings. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London, Lord Khan, stated that floating bus stops offer a safer route for all and that TfL will continue to consult with Londoners to ensure accessibility.
Government action and next steps
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport confirmed that the government is listening carefully to concerns raised by various organisations, including disability groups. They stated that councils were asked to pause work on the most problematic types of floating bus stops in November 2025 and that funding is being made available to enhance the accessibility of existing infrastructure.
Questions this report answers
+Why are campaigners calling for floating bus stops to be banned?
Campaigners argue that floating bus stops, which have a cycle lane between the pavement and the waiting island, pose a significant safety hazard for blind, deaf, and disabled commuters. They state that individuals cannot always see or hear approaching cyclists, leading to injuries and a loss of independence.
+How many floating bus stops are there in London?
According to London Assembly figures, there were 164 floating bus stops in the capital in 2024. These stops are designed to separate cyclists from road traffic but have raised safety concerns among disability groups.
+What has Transport for London said about the safety of these stops?
TfL has stated that its priority is safe travel for everyone and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and information. They previously reported six pedestrian casualties involving cyclists and e-scooters at floating bus stops over three years.
+What action is the government taking regarding floating bus stops?
The Department for Transport has acknowledged concerns and asked councils to pause work on problematic floating bus stops. Funding is being made available to improve the accessibility of existing infrastructure to address the issues raised by campaigners.
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