DRIVERS have been warned that a new bus lane traffic camera has been added to a busy stretch of road in Gateshead.

Gateshead Council has added a camera on the new bus lane on Askew Road, between Wellington Street and the A167.

Up until recently, all vehicles except buses were made banned on the newly-created temporary bus and cycle lane on this section.

The council said that anyone caught illegally driving in the bus lane will face a £60 penalty charge notice, or court action if they refuse to pay.

The council said the bus and cycle lane was created after the government asked local councils to look at what they could do to further encourage cycling.

A statement from the council added: "Gateshead Council is also committed to improving air quality around the Tyne Bridge.

"These changes to Askew Road have been brought forward so they can be tested and trialled under an experimental traffic order while there is reduced traffic and ahead of proposed changes to the Tyne Bridge as part of the air quality improvement plan."