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South Wales Argus
31-05-2025
- Automotive
- South Wales Argus
Severn Bridge weight limit sign confusion agency error
The clarification came after a haulier pointed out that the Agency had caused confusion on the Severn Bridge by leaving an old 44-tonne weight restriction sign on the slip road of the bridge. Frustrated trucker Ray Bashman said: 'Truckers call them (the National Highways Agency) wombles, because all they ever seem to do is pick stuff up that people have left behind. They don't really seem to do anything else. This time they couldn't even pick up their own stuff!' The National Highways Agency responded by saying it is working hard to clear up any confusion over weight limits on the Severn Bridge. The ageing bridge saw a weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes introduced on Tuesday, May 27. Truck drivers complained that the 44-tonne weight limit sign on the slip road of Junction two had not been covered up or replaced on the Welsh side of the bridge. It has also been alleged that continental trucks would not show up on the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera, which is used to enforce the weight limit. Unlike UK trucks, continental lorries have separate systems for registering trucks and trailers and these will 'trip the ANPR system.' Angered trucker Ray Bashman told the South Wales Argus: 'British drivers must do long detours across to Gloucester or over the Prince of Wales Bridge. This can add hundreds of miles to journeys and endless hours, often in gridlock. 'They (foreign truckers) already benefit from cheap Russian diesel and we find it difficult to compete with those prices. Competing with cheap fuel is bad enough, having to add extra driving hours to our time when they can go freely over the bridge is just ridiculous. This must be cleared up!' A National Highways Agency spokesman said: 'Recent high winds and heavy rain did mean a few signs were blown down and we weren't able to paint over all the necessary signage. But that is being rectified as quickly as possible. 'The numbers of vehicles breaching the ban is small and police are in the area to advise drivers of the new weight restrictions which only came into force yesterday.' The Agency clarified that there are a couple of outstanding signs, but these will be updated tonight, Wednesday, May 28, under a lane closure.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
How often should you take a rest break during a road trip? - what the experts say
With summer just around the corner, many will be looking forward a road trip. And the National Highways Agency has issued T.R.I.P advice to keep motorists safe on the roads. This includes advice on when to take a break from driving. READ MORE: 5 road trips you can do within a 2 hour drive of Bolton The worst family road trip irritations revealed in new poll Red X on motorway and what is means for motorists A spokesman for National Highways said: "We want you to have a safe T.R.I.P. (Image: National Highways) "Many of you will be gearing up for road trips, scenic drives and family days out during the holidays – a peak period for travel. But, just like spring cleaning helps refresh our homes, a little car TLC can help avoid unwanted breakdowns. "Weather in the UK can be full of surprises, with anything from warm afternoons to heavy rain showers, and even the occasional late frost or snow. April is also the month most associated with sudden downpours, and heavy rain that can create particularly challenging conditions to drive in. "This variability makes preparation more important than ever. Completing the simple T.R.I.P. safety checks before setting off can help ensure a safe, smooth journey. "Drivers have many things to do before setting off on a long journey, packing snacks, loading up tablets or getting the family ready to get into the car. However, while taking extra time for car checks may feel frustrating, it can help prevent breakdowns which could lead to hours of delays waiting for help, unexpected costs, unnecessary stress and a disrupted journey." T.R.I.P. Top-up, Rest, Inspect, Prepare This means top up your oil, fuel and screen-wash Rest every two hours Inspect tyres Prepare for the weather
