Luton Dunstable Busway closed for ‘maintenance works’ following accident earlier this month

PART of the Luton Dunstable Busway will be closed next week for ‘essential maintenance works’ following an accident at the beginning of this month.

The busway will shut in both directions between New Bedford Road and Church Street from Monday to Friday (17-21 August).

It follows an accident on August 1 in which a driver and two passengers were injured. A punctured tyre is thought to have caused the bus to derail close to Kiln Way.

Luton Council said the works are subject to weather conditions and they have made plans to continue work on the weekend of August 22 and 23 if there are any delays.

As a result of the works, the Clifton Road and Stanton Road busway stops will be closed, with bus services that usually use the busway diverting onto local roads.

Passengers are advised to check with their operator for details of service changes.

Cllr Waheed Akbar said: “The Council carries out regular inspections of the busway infrastructure, and these works are to rectify identified issues before they potentially develop into safety hazards.

“We are also taking advantage of this window to additionally repair damage to concrete beams which occurred near Skimpot bridge.

“The programme has been carefully scheduled to take place during the school holidays in order to minimise disruption to passengers, nonetheless travellers may wish to allow extra time for their journeys.

“The safety of the workforce and passengers is our priority and therefore full closure of the guideway is essential during this maintenance period.

“If the works finish early, the guideway will reopen as soon as possible.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”