Roads

Weight restrictions can be imposed for structural or for environmental reasons. It is a legal control on a specified vehicle weight or width, mainly on lorries, on certain roads and routes.

The restrictions prevent large vehicles from using inappropriate roads, routes and areas so that:

• danger to pedestrians and other road users is reduced,
• damage to buildings, roads and bridges is prevented,
• the character, amenity and environment of an area is preserved,
• congestion on the roads is managed and reduced.

Restrictions are subject to a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and the associated procedures. Regulatory signs are erected on the route to give effect to the TRO 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, signs are put up to show a recommended alternative route.

Enforcement

The enforcement of the restriction is a matter for the police. However, the police have limited resources to enforce this type of restriction (especially environmental restrictions). Restrictions with "except for access" clauses quickly fall into disrepute and are notoriously difficult to enforce. They are needed, however, to permit access to local shops, businesses and residential properties for deliveries or removals etc. For this reason, enforcement commands a low priority and where possible, physical restrictions are introduced to prevent any abuse of the restrictions. Restrictions will not be used if there is no suitable alternative route for the displaced traffic.

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