New steps to keep trucks on the right road

Under the new rules, laid before Parliament by Transport Minister Norman Baker, councils will no longer need Whitehall approval to introduce certain new signs or some existing ones that they need to use on a regular basis – including one to warn lorry drivers of unsuitable roads.

Among the new signs councils will now be able to use without needing to get Government approval are those indicating that a route is unsuitable for lorries and trucks - designed to tackle the problem of truck drivers using inappropriate roads because they are following satnavs.

Norman Baker said: "I am bringing an end to the ludicrous situation where councils have to come to central government for permission to put up signs they need to use on a regular basis to manage their roads.

“This will also allow them to more easily introduce new signs – like those which will prevent satnavs directing huge lorries down narrow country lanes.

"By adding these signs to the list of those which councils can use without needing Whitehall approval we will be reducing costs and bureaucracy as well making sure that the needs of 21st century drivers and cyclists are met."

The signs which will be added to the list of those which councils can use without Government approval include those indicating:

• Routes which are unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles. To reduce the problems caused by drivers following satellite navigation systems down narrow roads, a new information sign has been authorised for use warning of roads which are unsuitable for lorries;
• Available headroom warnings. Currently, councils wanting to indicate headroom warnings in metric and imperial measurements must use two separate signs. From now on councils will be able to use one sign showing both measurements, reducing clutter and cutting costs. Councils will still be able to use a single sign displaying imperial units only;
• Roads where toads may be crossing the carriageway. Toads on the carriageway can present a skid risk to drivers and signs warning drivers that toads may be on the road are currently allowed to be used from February to May. To allow for the effect of climate change on toad migration, councils can put the warning sign in place a month earlier without needing to gain approval;
• Restricted parking zones and permit parking areas.