White Paper poses low-loader problem
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TRANSQUIP INTERNATIONAL Trailers Ltd of Corby has suggested that the overall length restriction of tractive unit/lowloader combinations be increased to 18.5 (60ft 8in) if the White Paper proposals on increased weights become accepted.
The company, which manufactures heavy-duty trailers, is concerned with the recommendation that the maximum trailer length be restricted to 12.2m (4011).
Transquip argues that the maximum lower deck lengths available for a low loader would be: 6.8m (2h 41n) for 34 tonnes gross; 5.3m 117ft 5in) for 38 tonnes gross; and 4.5m (14ft 9in) for 40 tonnes gross.
However, because low-loader trailers are required to carry large and specialised plant equipment, Transquip suggests that a lower deck length of 6.8m is the bare minimum for such loads.
If the proposals are made to apply to low-loaders then Transquip suggests that more heavy loads would then be carried on flat trailers with a higher deck height thus raising the centre of gravity and increasing the number of bridge clearance problems.
Another course of action suggested by Transquip is that the current Construction and Use Regulations limit of 32 tons be retained for low-loader combinations and for anything above that to come under Special Types.
Transquip has notified the Department of Transport of its suggestions, and it has agreed to take the problems into account "if and when Regulations are drafted for heavier vehicles".
The Department does suggest, however, that there could be several snags in adopting the 18.5m approach in that it would seem to be running counter to the White Paper recommendation that lorries should not be allowed to grow larger and that The point has also been raised by the Department that there could be a practical problem concerning turning circles which would be increased with the 18.5m Transquip suggestion.
Although such vehicles already exist for moving heavy loads, they operate under Special Types and thus need route planning to be agreed with the Police and other authorities.