Proposed Bath HGV ban would add to hauliers’ costs
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PROPOSALS TO restrict HGVs using the edge of Bath city centre as a through route to the M4 could add signiicantly to transport irms’ journeys if they are accepted, critics warn.
Bath and North East Somerset Council wants to impose turning restrictions on 18-tonne vehicles at a key junction on the A36 to stop trucks using it to travel between the M4 and destinations south and east of the city.
The scheme would operate on an experimental basis for 18 months while its effect is assessed. Four alternative routes have been suggested, but critics say they would add miles to hauliers’ jour
neys and push trafic out to surrounding areas.
The council, which carried out research showing that 67% of HGVs using the key junction have no destination in the Bath area, says the movements create pollution and congestion.
Richard Fry, RHA chairman and director of Framptons Transport Services, says: “This is not going to achieve what the council wants and is going to add time and cost to journeys.” Council members were due to vote on the proposals yesterday (14 September).
• Visit www.roadtransport.com for the outcome.