Drivers have been warned that a major toll bridge in the northwest could be forced to shut completely due to a large number of HGVs and tractors ignoring weight restrictions during ongoing upgrade works.
The Warburton Toll Bridge, which connects Warburton and Rixton, issued the warning yesterday after numerous breaches of the three-tonne weight limit were recorded.
The bridge is currently undergoing significant upgrades that began in October last year, with the work expected to continue for at least 12 months.
But despite clear warning signs of the restrictions, various measures implemented to deter overweight vehicles have had limited success.
Barriers were introduced to prevent dangerous access, but drivers continue to illegally cross the bridge.
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The bridge has had weight restrictions since October 2024
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Some tractor drivers have gone as far as obscuring their number plates to avoid being caught on camera.
Others have falsely claimed to site staff that they possess permits issued by the Manchester Ship Canal Company, though no such permits exist.
Jon Hassett, Deputy Port Director, said: "We have put in place a number of safe and sensible measures to deter these irresponsible drivers and ensure everyone's safety.
"Unfortunately, the problem persists, and unless we are able to resolve the illegal use of overweight vehicles using the bridge, we will be left with no other solution than to shut the road completely.
"It is essential that we can focus our efforts and resources on completing the upgrade as soon as possible, rather than tackling this selfish behaviour."
Contractor Taziker, whose staff are doing most of the upgrade works, has also called for the responsible use of the bridge.
Neil Harrison, managing director at Taziker, added: "While works like these are going on, there has to be a weight restriction to protect the structure, all road users and our workers.
"It is extremely disappointing that some drivers are so willing to put other people at risk for their own convenience. It's also unreasonable to expect our staff, or indeed anyone, to be policing access and risking confrontation with individuals who have so far shown little regard for others."
The upgrade works on the bridge, which began in October, have meant that the usual toll charges have been suspended to facilitate the construction work.
HGVs have been breaking the weight restrictions in place
GETTYOnce completed, the upgrades aim to reduce congestion and enhance conditions for all road users in the area.
The toll will then increase from its current rate of 12p, which was set by an Act of Parliament in 1863 and has remained unchanged for 161 years, to £1.
A discount scheme will be available for local residents once the toll is restored. The new toll will cover future maintenance and repair work to ensure the bridge remains safe and operational.
Local authorities and Cheshire Police have already been advised of the seriousness of the problem. Peel Ports Group and Taziker are monitoring the situation daily, given the frequency of the breaches.
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The bridge has been closed for crucial repair works with it operating with new weight restrictions
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The bridge is already scheduled for a temporary closure this weekend, from Friday, May 16 until Monday, May 19, due to planned maintenance work.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use alternative routes during this period, with more information available on the Warburton Toll Bridge website.
