CONCERNS have been raised over the number of HGVs and lorries going over a Stratton railway bridge with a low weight limit following the opening of a new route through the parish.

Motorists have noticed more heavy goods vehicles travelling through Ermin Street and onto the Grade-2 listed bridge since the new junction which provides a direct link to Oxford Road opened to traffic earlier this week.

The bridge has a maximum weight limit of 7.5 tonnes but despite new signs going up alerting drivers to this restriction, neighbours claim vehicles of up to 30 tonnes are using the route as an alternative to the A419.

Plus, the vehicles are apparently going too fast along the street and causing nearby houses to rumble and shake.

Members of a Stratton facebook group reported their concerns to Coun Russell Holland.

He said: "I confirm we have notified the police of concerns regarding Ermin Street Bridge, we have been in contact with colleagues at Highways England regarding the overnight closures, and have reviewed traffic management arrangements including signage.

"Taking these points in turn, the weight restriction is for 7.5t and there are a number of exemptions which allow access, for example collections or deliveries.

"I am aware that residents often think vehicles such as skip lorries and large vans are in breach of the limit which isn’t the case, and notwithstanding the police’s other priorities, you will appreciate enforcement of weight limits can be challenging.

"In regards to structural integrity, Network Rail have confirmed they have no concerns.

"If a large number of HGVs are diverting over the bridge, the only alternative to police attendance at this time will be more restrictive traffic management, for example temporary overnight closures to all traffic.

"The overnight closures on the A419 are for traffic counters south of Honda and while I understand five nights have been booked, the work may be completed sooner.

"I have raised this with the route manager. Additional signage has been provided and our site inspectors will continue to monitor these daily given the issue experienced over the weekend with one ‘Road Ahead Closed’ sign being removed from Greenbridge Roundabout."

The new junction will allow work to continue on the new A419 northbound slip road from the White Hart roundabout without affecting traffic in the area.

A signalised crossing will be installed at the junction in the near future to manage traffic during busy times of day.