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Case study: Highways and Traffic Management

Critical Bridge Repair HGVs Restricted

Our client challenge and requirement:

We were briefed by the Highways Structures Project Team to support them on some structural work they were undertaking on a road bridge over a canal. As it was such a busy road, they could not close the road fully; they could only restrict access for heavy vehicles. Alongside the provision of physical width restriction barriers, they required CCTV with clear signage to help deter any large vehicles crossing this bridge while this structural process was taking place.

Intelligence sharing with partner organisations

Crimewave surveyed the site and fully managed the installation of two devices and signage to ensure we had coverage of both the North and South lanes. We individually configured the cameras to achieve good general views and achieve high quality images. When Council bridge works commenced, we were soon alerted to problems with vehicles colliding with the installed width restriction barriers. We then undertook a detailed surveillance review of the types of vehicles travelling through this area, and identified that buses and other heavy goods vehicles were crossing the bridge despite the restrictions in place. We evidenced buses that were still using this restricted area and very heavy goods vehicles were avoiding the restrictions by driving on the wrong side of the road and mounting the foot path. We also reviewed incidents and supplied footage where vehicles collided head on with concrete barriers. Some vehicles that were wider than the barriers in place caused major damage to both their vehicles and Council property.

Outcome and client benefit:

From our findings and evidence, the client modified and subsequently replaced the restrictions; and following further evidence from Crimewave, the client decided the only safe option was to close the road completely whilst the bridge works were being undertaken.

This intelligence also enabled the Council to recover costs from the vehicle drivers for damage to Council property.