It would appear Aycliffe, River and probably other areas in Dover have similar problems when it comes to 32ton plus Artic Lorries The main problem being them getting into the areas and then having no where to go or turn round without causing absolute havoc.
Is not the solution then but to try and stop them coming into Aycliff, River and the Alkham Valley Road in the First Place. Signs do work if they are put in the right place so that the drivers can see them in time and even if they did not work 100% of the time they would at least reduce the problem to where the police could take action if required.
The sign which states 7.5. Ton Only, at the entrance to each area, (placed in the correct place to see) would certainly help to stop large artic's enter into the roads where they are not wanted.
Aycliffe only has one way in and out so two signs as you come off the Avo Roundabout to go into Ropewalk/Aycliffe is all that is required.
Alkham Valley Road, requires two at the Hawkinge end of the road.
River requires two at either end of Lower Road and two at the road junction with Crabble Road & Crabble Avenue. A better sign is also required here to direct lorries that want to get to the Coombe Valley Ind Est, instead of the silly sign that is there at the moment which is too small and only on the right hand side of the road.
It is a fact there is virtually no reason for a 32 ton plus lorry to enter these areas so why let them. So all in all 10 x 7.5 ton signs could well help solve the problem, it may not stop them all together but something has to be better than nothing at all. Mind you having said that Kent Highways will count the cost first and will not consider the damage and inconvenience being caused. .
If you go to Canterbury, the Old Dover Road has 7.5 ton road signs and that is a wide, straight road with a way in and out and do you ever see artic's going through there, well I never have.
