Certain vehicles are now prohibited from using a busy A-road following new restrictions introduced by National Highways. A weight limit has come into force on the A5 through Towcester town centre, with vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes barred from the route.
New restrictions aim to improve town centre
National Highways stated the new ban will help 'alleviate traffic', and additionally reduce noise levels, improve air quality, and create a safer, more welcoming town centre. Officials confirmed the weight limits apply along the A5 from the roundabout at Cow Pastures Lane to the Old Tiffield Road junction.
New signage informing road users of the weight restrictions has already been erected throughout the surrounding area. Andrew Jinks, Midlands Regional Director at National Highways, said the new weight rules were introduced following the opening of the new Towcester Relief Road.
Relief road enables weight restriction
Andrew commented: 'The completion of Persimmon's relief road means we can now go ahead with our plan for a weight restriction on the A5 to tackle the issues businesses and residents have raised about congestion, noise, and vibrations from passing large vehicles.'
'This is the first phase of National Highways' work to address some of those concerns and find a solution to reduce the number of heavy vehicles travelling along the A5 every day. Further improvements will take place later this year to continue our ambition of improving congestion and safety in the historic town centre.'
Exemptions for emergency vehicles and local deliveries
National Highways has stated that certain exemptions will be in place, with emergency vehicles, buses, and coaches still permitted to use the roads. Additionally, recovery vehicles attending nearby incidents and vehicles delivering to residents, shops, and businesses can disregard the new weight restrictions.
Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at West Northamptonshire Council, emphasised that drivers of heavier vehicles will also benefit from the new regulations.
He said: 'It will potentially divert a large number of heavy vehicles away from the town's main high street, creating a much cleaner and more pleasant environment for everyone concerned. HGV drivers should also see the benefit as they will not need to negotiate narrow urban roads governed by multiple sets of traffic lights.'
