Item 6.2

DECISION

OF COUNCILLOR CROCKFORD-HAWLEY

THE EXECUTIVE MEMBER FOR STRATEGIC PLANNING

WITH ADVICE FROM

THE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT

DECISION No. 06/07 DE 392

SUBJECT: Proposed Weight Restriction on A368

Background:

The report follows on from a report presented in March 2006 on the same subject, and puts forward the results of the study undertaken in response to the recommendation arising from that report. It then compares these results with previous surveys and other data so as to determine whether a weight restriction should be implemented in order to reduce the number of HGVs using this stretch of road.

DECISION: That, having considered the three options set out in the report, the most appropriate way forward is to seek to implement an experimental weight restriction on the A368 from the A38 Churchill crossroads junction to a point further east such as West Harptree, and that the necessary support from Bath and North East Somerset Council be sought.

Reasons:

As the local authority boundary crosses the A368, the council needs the support of the neighbouring highway authority in order to implement the required traffic regulation order (TRO).

Other Alternatives Considered:

1. Do not implement any weight restriction at the present time. Continue to utilise the North Somerset Freight Working Group as the best means by which to engage with the haulage industry and to raise concerns about routeing direct with the industry at this forum.

2. Implement a 7.5t weight restriction between Churchill crossroads (A38) and Burrington Combe (B3134).

3. Implement an experimental 7.5t weight restriction between Churchill crossroads (A38) and Burrington Combe (B3134).

Financial Implications:

Implementing an experimental restriction between the junction of A368/A38 and West Harptree would cost in the region of £30,000 plus officer time. There would also be an additional monitoring cost to evaluate the impact of the restriction; the estimated cost of this would be £18,000 based on three sets of surveys over an envisaged experimental order period of 18 months.

Implementation costs could be found from the LTP integrated transport capital programme; however, this would be at the expense of other (more target-related) schemes.

Implications for Future Years:

If an experimental order is implemented there will be a slight impact on future highway maintenance costs to the authority due to the additional highway infrastructure (signs) that would be required.

Signed....................................................Executive Member Strategic Planning

Confirmation of Advice Given

Signed....................................................Director of Development & Environment

Dated....................................................