'Self-escorting' of abnormal loads could mean road jams: AA

Changes to the rules governing the movement of abnormal loads by road could lead to rush hour jams, according to the AA Motoring Trust.

The trust was reacting after the Highways Agency drafted a new code of practice for the "self-escorting" of abnormal loads and vehicles after police announced it would gradually give up escort duties on roads and motorways in England and Wales.

The Trust wants companies that will now escort vehicles to be fully accredited and trained to high standards. If they fail to keep up to scratch they should lose the right to escort, the trust said.

The AA has called for legislative changes to include powers to restrict the time of day the loads are moved – a feature apparently missing from the proposed guidelines.

Paul Watters, Head of Roads and Transport Policy for The AA Motoring Trust, said: “We are concerned that the proposed code does not include any time restrictions. With over 1.5 million abnormal loads on English and Welsh roads each year, motorists do not want to be stuck behind them in rush-hour jams. They will want these types of loads transported when the roads are relatively free of traffic.

“Some motorways can be reduced to a single lane in places when abnormal loads are being transported. If that is done during busy periods it could effectively shut the motorway by forcing the traffic to move as slowly as the load.”

The AA Motoring Trust said it accepted that the code will involve transferring some routine police traffic tasks, but effective management of those who take over from the police is "essential".

Motorists must be reassured that safety is paramount when escorts are handled by civilians rather than highly trained and visible traffic police, the trust said.

(gmcg)