Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

A nice idea. If only WC agreed...

Staverton Parish Council is investigating the possibility of a weight limit on the B3015.

In response, Wiltshire Council highway engineers have inspecteded the bridges. They state:-

'There are a number of bridges on the route through Staverton but none of them give cause for concern.

In summary:

There are three flood arches along the causeway, one was strengthened in 1992. The others are fine.

The main river bridge has been assessed as being able to carry 40/44 tonnes. It would benefit from a little masonry repair work to the elevations but this is cosmetic rather than structural.

The two mill bridges were both redecked in 2006.

The rail bridge was strengthened in 2007.

The canal bridge has been assessed as adequate for 40/44 tonnes.

The traffic lights at the river were installed because the bridges are too narrow for two-way traffic and not because the bridges had insufficient strength.

There is no reason to impose a weight limit on any of the bridges through Staverton on structural grounds.'

Whilst there might not be a structural reason, there are certainly environmental and safety reasons. It's just a pity that neither WC nor central government seem that concerned.