Campaign Aims:-

1. To ensure that the 18t weight restriction on the bridge at Misterton is lifted as soon as possible.
2. To reduce the damage being caused by the large increase in HGVs being diverted through North Perrott while the weight limit is in place, by reducing their speed to 20mph.
3. To formulate a plan for the future, that will encourage a sensible diversion for traffic around North Perrott and Misterton.

The recent restriction of 18 tonnes on the bridge at the Globe Inn, Misterton has diverted a large number of HGV’s through North Perrott. While we are used to a regular number of heavy vehicles, the huge increase was immediately noticeable to owners of listed buildings that line both sides of the main road in the village. The increase in noise and vibration has manifest itself in a sudden increase in the number of cracks in the plaster on roadside walls, including small pieces actually falling off (see photos). Most of these heritage buildings are built on 15th century foundations, which are not able to withstand the constant impact of passing HGVs.

This is exacerbated because the A3066 is relatively straight for the length of the village and lorries are able to travel at 30mph, as opposed to the neighbouring villages, were parked vehicles and infant schools mean that 20mph is the maximum allowed.

HGVs 20’s Plenty campaign is requesting transport companies to ask their drivers to reduce their speed through the village and help to reduce the damage to our older houses, especially while there are so many extra lorries being diverted through the village.

We also want to keep up pressure on Somerset County Council and their Highways contractors so that they know that any delays to repair the bridge are having a detrimental effect along the diversion route, as well as costing transport companies time, money and extra mileage to their vehicles.