'Irresponsible' lorry drivers threaten toll bridge

The bridge is undergoing repairs

A toll bridge may have to close unless "irresponsible" drivers of lorries, tractors and other heavy vehicles stop crossing it illegally.

Warburton Toll Bridge's owner claimed some drivers had taken advantage of tolls being suspended since September.

The Manchester Ship Canal Company said various measures had failed to deter drivers of overweight vehicles, and warned this was threatening the safety of contractors upgrading the bridge.

It said some tractor drivers have obscured their number plates to avoid being caught on camera, with others have allegedly lied to site staff by claiming to have a permit to cross the bridge in Cheshire.

There have been no tolls on Warburton Toll Bridge since September 2024

In addition to signs clearly warning of the restrictions, barriers were introduced to deter overweight vehicles.

Deputy port director Jon Hassett 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."

'Little regard for others'

Contractor Taziker, whose staff are doing most of the upgrade works, echoed Mr Hassett's words.

Managing director Neil Harrison said: "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."

Local authorities have already been advised of the seriousness of the problem.

Given the frequency of the breaches, Peel Ports Group and Taziker said they were monitoring the situation daily.