Decision Maker: Executive Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: April 23, 2025

Purpose: The following Network Rail bridges were assessed under the national Bridgeguard 3 programme conducted around 2006.  Network Rail requested that the structures be weight restricted as a result of the assessment calculations.  Temporary weight restrictions were imposed at the time, but these now need to be made permanent. ·       Stamford Road, Audenshaw (southern side) ·       Lodge Lane, Hyde ·       Cranbourne Road, Ashton ·       Spring Bank Lane, Stalybridge   Grove Road / Spring Bank Lane, Stalybridge (river bridge).  Following a recent assessment, the load carrying capacity of this council owned bridge has reduced.  Consequently, a new weight restriction was required for this bridge also.   As the bridges that were still known to be weak are not scheduled to be replaced or repaired, to full weight bearing capacity in the near future, they were in need of control.   It was intended to introduce a permanent legal order to limit the size of vehicles that can traverse the bridges and ensure the signage, in terms of design and illumination, was in line with current permanent legislation.    

Content: RESOLVED That it be DETERMINED that: 1.         Permission is given under sections 1(1), 2(1), 2(2), 2(4) and 2(5) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to make a legal Order for a weight restriction on several weak bridges throughout Tameside.  To advertise a weight restriction order for the bridges listed in Appendix 2 Schedule 1, and if no objections are received, seal the proposed Order. 2.         Any objections will be reported at a future Speakers Panel (Planning) meeting to determine a final resolution to the proposed restrictions. 3.         Permission is given under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to revoke any legal Orders for a weight restriction which is no longer required for bridges throughout Tameside.  To advertise such revocations for the bridges listed in Appendix 2, Schedule 2.