ITEM TD10
TRANSPORT DECISIONS COMMITTEE – 6 SEPTEMBER 2007
PROPOSED 18 TONNES WEIGHT RESTRICTION – RAILWAY BRIDGE, FOXHALL ROAD, DIDCOT
Report by Head of Transport
Introduction
1. This report details the responses to a formal advertisement of a proposal to implement an 18 tonnes weight restriction on the bridge carrying Foxhall Road over the Railway bridge.
2. Foxhall Road, between the roundabout junction with the A4130/Station Road and a point opposite Foxhall Manor Park is currently subject to an environmental weight limit of 7.5 tonnes. The Traffic Regulation Order contains exemptions for vehicles in excess of this weight to allow access to premises within the restriction.
Reasons for the Proposal
3. Following an assessment by Network Rail engineers it was found that a proposed weight limit, without exemption, was required for the bridge in order to maintain the fabric of the structure.
4. Formal advertisement and consultation on the proposed weight restriction was carried out between 1 and 29 June 2007. A Public Notice was placed in the Local Press and on site and consultation undertaken with stakeholders.
5. Four responses were received. Thames Valley Police did not object. Three others objected to the proposal and those responses are summarised at Annex 1 (download as .doc file). (Annex 2 - download as .doc file).
Conclusion
6. The proposed restriction will continue to allow vehicles between 7.5 tonnes and 18 tonnes maximum gross weight access but will prohibit vehicles over 18 tonnes from using the bridge in order to maintain the fabric of the structure. The alternative route for vehicles prohibited from the bridge is short and will result in little, if any, adverse effect on those businesses located on the north side of the bridge.
Financial and Staff Implications
7. The costs of the proposal and associated works are to be met in full by Network Rail
RECOMMENDATION
8. The Committee is RECOMMENDED to:
(a) approve the making of an 18 tonne weight restriction order over the railway bridge at Foxhall Road, Didcot; and
(b) authorise any works necessary to implement the Order
STEVE HOWELL Head of Transport Environment & Economy
Background papers: Consultation documentation
Contact Officer: Malcolm Bowler, Senior Traffic Technician Tel: (01235) 466119
July 2007
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