Home   News   Article

Subscribe Now

HGV impact on communities measured as part of freight survey refresh





Among the monitoring points for the survey undertaken last Wednesday were the south entrance to Greenham Business Park; the A339 Greenham Road roundabout; on the A339 bridge as it travels over the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Faraday Road junction with the A4.
The survey forms part of the research being compiled to update West Berkshire Council freight strategy which focuses on the impact of freight vehicles.
A public consultation is also underway to allow residents to help shape the strategy through explaining how HGV traffic impacts upon their community.
A statement released by the council said: “We recognise that the movement of freight by road is an issue which can be controversial.
“It's a key driver in the local and national economy, moving raw materials and finished goods to the locations where they are needed, but it can also cause social and environmental issues which affect the quality of life for our residents.
“Our freight strategy aims to strike a balance between these considerations.”
It forms part of the council’s Local Transport Plan, and the latest survey follows discussions earlier this year over whether a ban or limit on HGVs using the A339 through central Newbury should be introduced to reduce high levels of air pollution and congestion in the town.
In 2009, the A339 junction at the Greenham Road roundabout was declared an air quality management area, with NO2 levels 30 per cent higher than permitted under Government regulations, which state that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels should not exceed 40 micrograms (mcg) per cubic metre.
The results of the survey will not be made public at this time, according to council spokesman Keith Ulyatt who said: “We were simply recording the number of HGVs on certain roads during what we think is a ‘normal day’.
“Those findings will be part of the comprehensive set of data gleaned in part from the consultation that runs until August.
“All results will need to be assimilated so they can be reviewed in context and then inform the freight strategy.”
To take part in the consultation, which closes on August 13, visit www.westberks.co.uk



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More