Harrogate Borough Council
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Weight Limits
Weight restrictions can be imposed for structural or for environmental reasons. It is legal control on a specified vehicle weight or width, mainly on lorries, 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 a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and the associated procedures (see Fact Sheet on Traffic Regulation Orders)
- regulatory signs are erected on site to give effect to the TRO and to assist the police in carrying out its enforcement
How do I apply for new or changes to existing Weight Limits?
If you wish for the Council to consider the introduction of any of the measures outlined above you will need to request this in writing giving full reasons for the request. Harrogate Borough Council programme 2 reviews of traffic regulation orders each year and your request will considered at the earliest possible review by the Traffic section.
Applications may be made in writing to;-
Senior Engineer [Traffic]
Traffic Management Section
Department of Development Services
Harrogate Borough Council
Knapping Mount
West Grove Road
Harrogate
HG1 2AE
Telephone: 01423 500600
Fax: 01423 556650
Applications may also be made by using the form below
Latest and current Traffic Regulation Orders
All the latest traffic regulation order proposals and details of existing traffic regulation orders can be found on here.
Enforcement
This 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. 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, where possible, physical measures should be introduced to prevent any abuse of the restrictions - the installation of signs alone are wholly ineffective. 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.