Weight limits are imposed for one of two reasons. The first
is called an environmental weight limit. The second is where there
is a weak bridge which cannot hold the weight of a large
vehicle.
Environmental weight limits
Environmental weight restrictions can be considered on routes or
roads which are not part of
the Suffolk Lorry Route Network (PDF file,
1.19 MB) and at locations where a more appropriate, practical
alternative route exists. Lorries requiring access, and in some
cases local deliveries would still be permitted even if a weight
restriction were introduced. Lorries requiring access, and
in some cases for local deliveries, are exempt from
environmental weight restrictions.
Weight limits prevent large vehicles from using inappropriate
roads, routes and areas in order to:
- prevent damage to buildings, roads and bridges;
- preserve the character, amenity and environment of an
area;
- reduce and manage congestion on the roads; and
- reduce danger to pedestrians and other road users.
Any new environmental weight limit is considered against the
objectives of the Suffolk Lorry Management Plan. A weight
restriction will only be considered on a road where there is a high
volume of through heavy goods vehicles, which could use a more
appropriate road. Weight restrictions can only be introduced
following the procedures associated with a
Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). Regulatory signs are
erected on site to give effect to the TRO, to inform drivers, and
to assist the Police in carrying out its enforcement. Where a
TRO restricts the use of a road, route or area to certain vehicles,
the signing of a recommended alternative route will need to be
considered.
If a weight limit is appropriate, the county council normally
funds it. It can take between 6 months and 2 years to introduce an
environmental weight limit, sometimes longer if there are more
complex issues to resolve.
It is not always possible to introduce a weight restriction.
Instead of an environmental weight restriction, it is sometimes
possible to consider other actions. For example, if a particular
haulier is repeatedly driving down an unsuitable minor road,
Suffolk County Council can contact the haulier. Suffolk County
Council works closely with hauliers in, and outside of, Suffolk,
and will contact them, if appropriate, on receipt of a completed
HGV incident reporting form
(PDF, 26Kb).
Weak bridge weight restriction
Occasionally
bridges
require to be protected because of their condition and inability to
support heavy lorries. A weight limit applied for these reasons
applies only to the bridge, and is signed. In these cases access
across the bridge is not permitted.
If a weight limit is appropriate, the county council normally
funds it. It can take between 6 months and 2 years to introduce an
environmental weight limit, sometimes longer if there are more
complex issues to resolve.