Government raises speed limits for abnormal loads

The Department for Transport (DfT) has raised the speed limit for certain types of vehicle transporting abnormal loads.

• For artics weighing between 150 tonnes and 250 tonnes, a rise from 12mph to 25mph;
• For draw-bar trailer vehicles weighing between 150 tonnes and 250 tonnes, an increase from 12mph to 20mph.

For girder frame trailers over 150 tonnes and draw-bar trailers over 250 tonnes, the limit stays at 12mph.

A study into the issue was carried out last year on behalf of the Highways Agency (HA), which was followed by a consultation process with the heavy haulage sector.

The report found that despite most abnormal loads being transported outside of peak times, the cost to the economy as a result of the congestion caused was about £5.1m per annum.

By making the speed limit changes, the government believes the figure should fall to around £2.5m a year, and the research also showed the increased speed would have only a marginal impact on wear and tear on the roads.

David Collett, MD at Halifax, West Yorks-based heavy haulier Collett Transport, says: “The changes are a good thing for the industry as the old regulations were outdated and based on old equipment.

“The reality is that over recent years we have seen the introduction of much better brake, tyre and suspension technology. It should cut some of our journeys down from two hours to one-and-a-half hours in some cases.”

Ray Engley, Road Haulage Association head of technical services, adds: “We are happy with the news as it should reduce the number of crashes caused by traffic running into the back of slow-moving trailers.”