Weight limits and width restrictions

Weight or width restrictions can be imposed for structural or for environmental reasons. It is legal control, mainly on heavy goods vehicles, on certain roads and routes.

The restriction prevents large vehicles from using inappropriate roads, routes and areas in order to:

• reduce danger to pedestrians and other road users
• prevent damage to buildings, roads and bridges
• preserve the character, amenity and environment of an area
• reduce and manage congestion on the roads

Procedures for implementation

Restrictions are subject to the implementation of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO)
Regulatory signs are then erected on site to give effect to the TRO and to assist the police in carrying out enforcement.

Enforcement

This is a matter for the Police. However, the Police have limited resources to enforce this type of restriction. Restrictions with "except for access" clauses quickly fall into disrepute and are notoriously difficult to enforce. However these are needed to permit HGV access to local shops, businesses, residential properties for deliveries/removals etc.

For this reason, enforcement commands a low priority and therefore physical measures should be introduced to prevent any abuse of the restrictions, although this is not always possible. Restrictions will not be used if there is no suitable alternative route for the displaced traffic.

Additional considerations

Where a Traffic Regulation Order restricts the use of a road, route or area to certain vehicles, the signing of a recommended alternative route will need to be considered as this can sometimes push a problem from one route or area to another.
If you have any queries on weight or width restrictions for traffic, please use the contact details below:

Highways Helpdesk
Bedfordshire County Council
6th Floor
County Hall
Bedford
MK42 9AP

Tel: (01234) 228661
Email: