Transport Scotland co-ordinates the movement of abnormal
loads throughout Scotland’s trunk and non-trunk road network, ensuring
that the requirements of industry are met, while minimising the risk to
road safety and delays to other road users, and also safeguarding
bridges from damage by overweight or over height vehicles.
The
primary function of Transport Scotland’s Abnormal Routing Section is to
investigate on behalf of the Highways Agency, the suitability of
proposed wide, high and heavy load movements within Scotland that
require VR1 or Special Order authorisation under Section 44 of the Road
Traffic Act.
Before recommending to the Highways Agency that any
such authorisation is given, Abnormal Routing Section must be satisfied
that the movement can be justified, and that alternatives have been
considered – consulting with its Operating Companies, Local
Authorities, other Bridge Owners and the Police where necessary along
the route of the proposed movement.
From the records held, and
the experience gained in performing these duties, it is also able to
offer a routing advisory service on the movement of all abnormal loads,
and high loads, throughout Scotland. This service is highly regarded
by haulage contractors, plant operators and the manufacturing &
construction industry throughout the UK – assisting them with their
day-to-day transport problems and enabling them to fully investigate
all options prior to tendering for transportation of wide, high or
heavy loads.
The Abnormal Routing Section can also advise
haulage contractors and plant operators of the road authorities whose
area they propose to travel through – thereby reducing the likelihood
of an authority not being notified of the proposed movement
See Abnormal Load Movements - A brief guide to Notification and Authorisation requirements.
Further details on abnormal loads can also be obtained on the Highways Agency’s Electronic Service Delivery for Abnormal Loads (ESDAL) website.
Contact:
Trunk Road: Network Management Directorate (Abnormal Load Routing)
Buchanan House
58 Port Dundas Road
Glasgow
G4 0HF
Telephone: 0141 272 7100
Email: info@transportscotland.gsi.gov.uk
