Portswood Broadway bus gate protest in Southampton

Harry O'Connor lives on Abbotts Way, one of the residential routes affected by the bus gate.

He said it is "ridiculous", adding: "We are not a political part, we just want our road back.

"It has made traffic less safe and decreased footfall on the high street."

Martin Boorman lives on Brookvale Road and has now coined it the "Portswood bypass".

He said: "We have been counting and since this scheme has come in street traffic on Brookvale Road has doubled."

The protest is now working its way back to Trago Lounge from Waitrose.

Protestors are being handed snacks by staff at Kate's Cafe. 

Cars are beeping their horns in support as they drive by, says our reporter at the scene.

Protestors are chanting: "Keep our roads safe, stop the bus gate now" as they walk from Trago Lounge down the high street, towards the shopping centre. 

(Image: Newsquest)

(Image: Newsquest)

(Image: Newsquest)

Live from the protest

The trial of the partial closure of Portswood Road has been in force since the end of January. 

Between Westridge Road and St Denys spur road, Portswood Broadway is only open to buses, taxis and cyclists from 7am to 10am, and 4pm to 7pm, Monday to Saturday.

This will be in force until July. 

And this is not the first protest held against the scheme.

Good morning.

Live updates from Portswood as campaigners protest the ongoing bus gate trial.