Weight limit for Bath's Cleveland Bridge challenged

A proposed ban on heavy lorries using the Grade II-listed Cleveland Bridge in Bath is being opposed by two councils and the Highways Agency (HA).

Bath and North East Somerset Council wants the A36 de-trunked - taken out of the national road network - so it can impose an 18-tonne weight limit.

Councillors in Wiltshire and Somerset believe the displaced traffic would transfer on to less suitable routes.

They and the HA have written to the government to object to the plans.

In the joint letter to Transport Secretary Justine Greening, they also say the move would result in extra costs for the haulage industry.

At present, lorries use the city as a short cut from junction 18 of the M4 - down the A46 then along London Road and Cleveland Bridge - en route to the south coast.

Councillors in Bath hope the proposed weight limit will reduce congestion and improve air quality in the city.