Weight limits are used to stop large vehicles, particularly lorries, from using unsuitable roads, routes or areas. They are used to:
- improve road safety,
- prevent damage to buildings, roads and bridges,
- protect the character or attractiveness of an area,
- reduce traffic congestion.
Enforcement
Weight limits sometimes have "except for access" exemptions. These are difficult to enforce, since lorries still need to get to local shops, businesses and houses for deliveries and removals. For this reason, enforcement of these weight limits is a low priority for the police. Physical measures are often needed to stop illegal lorry access, because the signs are ignored.
Holyport weight restriction
A 7.5T weight restriction was implemented in the Holyport area in December 2015.
Vehicles weighing more than the 7.5 tonne limit are not permitted to drive on the A330 through Holyport, Touchen End and Moneyrow Green unless they have business in the area (making deliveries or collecting from a location within the area of the restriction).
The scheme was implemented to reduce danger for road users and damage to the road and roadside structures, on a narrow section of the A330 near Holyport Village Green. It is also intended to preserve the amenities of other roads which could be used as alternative routes.