New restrictions on crossing between England and Wales
The crossing will remain open to all emergency vehicles, scheduled buses, coaches, gritters and recovery vehicles.
During unplanned closures of the Prince of Wales bridge, vehicles over the weight threshold will be diverted via the M5 and M50, with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR) cameras being explored by National Highways to support enforcement.
Some hauliers have said this diversion could be devastating for their businesses.
A director of an Avonmouth-based haulage company warned[1] the alternative route into Wales via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge is not always reliable, and drivers could be forced to take lengthy detours around Gloucester.
But, National Highways bosses said they had "no choice" but to impose weight limits in the interest of public safety, and that they are looking for a long-term solution to allow HGVs to return "in a controlled manner".
References
- ^ director of an Avonmouth-based haulage company warned (www.bbc.co.uk)