What is an abnormal load?
An "abnormal load" can generally be described as a vehicle having one or more of the following characteristics:
- Total gross vehicle weight of 40 tonnes or over
- An Axle load of more than 11.5 tonnes
- A vehicle or its load more than 2.90 metres wide
- A vehicle or its load more than 18.65 metres long
The current regulations regarding the movement of abnormal loads are contained in the Government Statutory Instrument 2003 No. 1998 - The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003.
Who regulates the movements of abnormal loads for Bolton Council?
The Abnormal Loads Unit of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) regulates and manages the movement of abnormal loads throughout Bolton and the surrounding boroughs.
They can be contacted on 0161 244 1891 or email abnormal.loads@tfgm.com
Very long and/or very wide loads
Many of the longer and wider vehicles are dealt with by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) as an escort is often required.
Please phone the police on 101 and ask for the Abnormal Loads Section.
Who must I inform?
Hauliers who wish to move abnormal loads must contact the TfGM Abnormal Loads Unit as stated above. In some cases permission may be required from the Highways Agency - the Abnormal Loads Unit will advise on this.
There is also a legal requirement to notify the Police of the movement of an abnormal load at least two days in advance.
Who do I contact if street furniture needs to be moved?
Some abnormal load movements require the temporary removal of street furniture such as bollards and signs. On no account should any unauthorised attempt be made to remove or unfix street furniture.
In order to arrange for the temporary removal of street furniture please contact our Streetcare team on 01204 336600 or email streetcare@bolton.gov.uk