Time to get heavy (From Gazette Series)

Time to get heavy

STEPS are being taken to move lorries back onto the motorway networks in a bid to lessen their impact on Gloucestershire's rural and residential roads.

Gloucestershire County Council has decided to review the status of routes used by lorries amid concerns that some are unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles and is now considering various options, including weight restrictions and overnight curfews, to restricting HGV movements where problems exist.

The Great Gloucestershire Debate has revealed that communities are increasingly concerned about the impact of lorries on small, rural and residential roads not shown on HGV maps - but frequently used as short cuts.

"We think a substantial number of A roads are no longer able to allow the biggest lorries to pass side by side and as such their classification should be reviewed," said Cllr Charles Gillams (Con, Bourton), cabinet member for environment.

"There are safety issues related to HGVs using small or unsuitable roads and lorries are much more destructive to the road surface and adjacent properties, than cars. Our aim is to move lorries back on to the trunk road and motorway networks, where they belong. "

He continued: "We will be looking at problem roads and downgrading the network or imposing weight restrictions wherever we feel it is necessary. Any restrictions introduced through this review will need enforcing and we will look to work in partnership with parish and town councils to implement lorry watch schemes."

The council wants to involve the Freight Quality Partnership in the review - a partnership, which includes representatives from the haulage industry, town and parish councils and business.

"What we have to do is find the appropriate balance between the need to move goods and the protection of our environment," said Barry King, head of transport at the council.

"One of the big problems is that any restriction has to allow for local access and we have to think about the needs of rural businesses, such as farms. We will also address road safety concerns through a review of speed limits, traffic signs and management. Where it is not possible to divert significant volumes of lorries away from communities, there may be opportunities with road surface maintenance to reduce the nuisance from noise and vibration.

"We are not just looking at local solutions; we are working with the Highways Agency to improve the signing of long distance routes to encourage lorries to use motorways."