We can impose a weight or width restriction for structural or environmental reasons. This is a legal control to stop large vehicles, of a certain weight or width, from using roads that aren't suitable.
The police must support these restrictions, as they're responsible for enforcing them.
Imposing the restriction:
- reduces danger to people walking and other road users
- prevents damage to buildings, roads and bridges
- preserves the character, appearance and environment of an area
- helps us reduce and manage traffic on the roads
Sometimes, heavy goods vehicles may still need access to a road that has a weight restriction, for example to make a delivery. In these cases, signs will say 'except for access'.
If a road is in really poor condition, access may not be possible at all.
Enforcing weight and width limits
The police are responsible for enforcing vehicle weight and width limits.
To report a vehicle that is using a road that is not suitable due to a weight restriction, please contact the police directly on 101.