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Truck ban on Bidston bridge
Page 10
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Operators face extra congestion next week when an HGV ban is slapped on the Bidston Moss Viaduct. Jennifer Ball reports.
BUSINESS LEADERS and operators say plans to ban trucks from using the M53 Bidston Moss Viaduct could have a drastic impact on the local economy.
From next Monday (17 January) trucks will be diverted from the motorway at J1 around the roundabout and via the parallel slip roads to avoid the main viaduct, which needs strengthening. The viaduct, which is the main route into the Kingsway Tunnel, is used by about 3,000 trucks a day.
Ken Davies, CEO of the Wirral Chamber of Commerce, says this will have a major effect on transport: "This is a trade route for trucks travelling to Liverpool and beyond but is closed on a regular basis for maintenance.
"The effect that this could have on supplies to local businesses is a major concern," he says.
Local operator John Ball from John Ball Haulage accepts the need for the work: "We would be the first to complain if a truck fell through the bridge because it was not strong enough. However, it will be a nuisance and depending on the traffic could add another 30 minutes to our journey time."
The viaduct was strengthened in 1988 to handle the advent of 40tonners.
The Highways Agency's area manager, Roy Wood, adds thai since then further investigatiom have been taking place, leading tc the HGV ban: "We realise thit may cause some disruption, bui this is for safety and we would as motorists and the residents to ilea] with us while we seek the most cos effective solution."