Structural Weight Limits
A structural Weight limit (a round sign with a weight limit
only) is a mandatory limit and means the bridge is weak and to
protect it, vehicles whose plated weight is over the limit must not
be driven over the bridge.
Some of Kent's Bridges are weak and protected by structural
weight limits to ensure no damage is caused to them from
overloading.
These fall into two categories:
- Those where a permanent restriction has been imposed which is
acceptable and sustainable given the nature and use made of the
road on which the bridge lies.
- Those where a temporary restriction order has been imposed
pending strengthening of the structure to protect the safety of the
road user.
These are based on plated vehicle weights and the vehicle is
banned even if empty.
Environmental Limits
An environmental limit (generally 7.5T shown on a lorry on a
round sign) is also a mandatory limit and is used to discourage
heavy good vehicles from using the route as a through route. This
is either for a social or environmental reason, or because the lane
is too narrow.
Use of bridges can also be restricted by environmental weight,
width or length limits applied to the road on which the bridge lies
or to the bridge itself. These generally are there to prevent the
use of routes by through traffic but may also be related to
physical geometrical difficulties in road alignment or width.
View a table of restricted bridges. |