IMPACTS OF INCREASED GOODS VEHICLE WEIGHT LIMITS

The maximum weights of goods vehicles operating between European Community countries were harmonised on 1 January 1993 (the United Kingdom has a derogation from some of the regulations until 1 January 1999). This harmonisation will increase the maximum permitted weights in the United Kingdom for all types of heavy goods vehicle (rigid, articulated and drawbar) which will affect the composition of the vehicle fleet, structural road wear, etc. In order to estimate the impacts of these changes, TRL conducted a questionnaire survey of goods vehicle operators' responses to the new limits. The survey data were grossed-up to give estimates of the numbers of goods vehicles, amount of goods vehicle travel and overall road wear factors for the new weight limits. (For the purpose of the study it was assumed that there would be no change in the amount of goods moved by road). The results indicated that full implementation of the European Community weight limits in the United Kingdom would lead to a reduction in the number of goods vehicles and annual goods vehicle travel and an increase in road wear. (A)