Hauliers largely obeying Severn Bridge ban

Heavy vehicles have been banned from using the crossing since May after inspections revealed deterioration to the supporting cables. Vehicles over 7.5-tonnes must use the Prince of Wales Bridge to travel between England and Wales. A Gwent Police operation called Operation Wolverine is in place to target drivers breaking the rules and it is understood the penalties include a ?100 fine and three penalty points.
However, local news outlets published a photograph of an HGV crossing the bridge on 4 August, leading to concerns that there was very little enforcement taking place. But National Highways said the numbers breaking the limit were small: "We are working with local police, through Operation Wolverine, as well as the DVSA and the traffic commissioner to prevent infringements and ensure that HGV drivers flouting the ban are dealt with," said Chris Pope, National Highways programme delivery manager. "Operation Wolverine with Gwent Police is running for three months, and ANPR cameras have also now been installed at either end of the structure.
"We continue to work at pace with Avon and Somerset Police as we transition from physical enforcement to predominately digital via ANPR cameras.
"There is extensive signage on the approach to the bridge and we have worked hard to raise awareness of the need for the ban including briefing hauliers, Logistics UK and the Road Haulage Association," he added.
"The weight restrictions are essential to future-proof the bridge and hauliers must observe the signs and take an alternative route if their HGV is over 7.5 tonnes."