Newport's George Street Bridge is under a 7.5 tonne weight restriction for heavy goods vehicles due to safety concerns. Find out the details and alternative routes.
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NEWPORT’S GEORGE STREET BRIDGE has been hit with a weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) after safety concerns came to light during recent evaluations. This restriction kicked in at 6 PM on Friday when the council revealed signs of concrete degradation discovered during their surveys.
What You Need to Know About the Restriction
This weight limit is in effect until further notice, ensuring that the bridge remains accessible to most other traffic types. Gwent Police are stepping in to help enforce this new rule, making sure HGVs stick to the guidelines.
To keep things moving smoothly, a diversion route has been set up, directing HGVs to travel via Usk Way, the A48 Southern Distributor Road (SDR), and Corporation Road.
A spokesperson for Newport City Council shared, “Surveys of the bridge have revealed some evidence of degradation of concrete.
We need to reduce the load on the bridge to keep it open for most traffic. This means restricting HGVs from using the bridge for the time being while we carry out further investigations.” They also reassured the public that the bridge remains safe for vehicles weighing less than 7.5 tonnes.
Investigations and Community Impact
As investigations into the bridge’s condition continue, updates will be shared as soon as new information is available. The council is committed to ensuring that these temporary measures prioritize the safety of all commuters. Residents and regular users of the bridge can breathe easy, as lighter vehicles can still access it without issue.
The spokesperson added, “While we continue our investigations, we are satisfied that the bridge is safe to use for traffic under the 7.5 tonne weight. We will work with Gwent Police to enforce this weight restriction and provide further updates as our investigations progress.” Transparency and public safety are at the forefront of the council’s efforts throughout this process.
What’s Next? A Timeline of Events
At this point, the timeline for lifting the weight restriction remains uncertain and will hinge on the results of ongoing assessments. The council is dedicated to keeping the public in the loop about any changes to the situation, emphasizing their commitment to commuter safety and the integrity of local infrastructure.
In light of these developments, it’s essential for drivers, especially those behind the wheel of HGVs, to stay alert to the updated traffic regulations and plan their routes accordingly to avoid any disruptions. Are you prepared to adapt to these changes? Your journey may depend on it!
