Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

HGV ban in Bath – Highways Agency backs objectors.

The Highways Agency (HA), which manages the motorways and trunk roads, has objected to the BANES council proposal to close Cleveland Bridge to lorries, thus sending more of them through Wiltshire.

Having initially adopted a neutral stance the HA has now decided to oppose the idea, saying the plan would be detrimental to the strategic road network.

Meanwhile, the scheme, and Wiltshire Council’s response, are being monitored by several Area Boards including Trowbridge and Bradford-on-Avon. Staverton Parish Council has asked for the possibility of a weight restriction on the river bridge at Nestle. Should this be successful, it would have a positive effect for Hilperton also.

Widespread opposition should at least delay the plans. The original timetable of a February or March 2012 introduction looks increasingly unlikely.