HGVs are known to have a negative impact on road surfaces, underground services, bridges and other structures. They can create unnecessary noise and air pollution in residential areas. Large vehicles can also pose a serious safety hazard for other road users and pedestrians, particularly children.

Lorry watch will operate in areas where a weight restriction order is in place. A Lorry Lookout is a place where a Lorry Watch scheme is in operation.

How the scheme works 

• Lorry watch observers will record details of vehicles seen within the Lookout area.
• These details are then be handed to a parish co-ordinator.
• The co-ordinator passes the information to Trading Standards.
• Trading Standards obtain the vehicles owners details from the DVLA.
• Trading Standards contact the owner to determine whether the driver was in contravention of the Weight Restriction Order when observed.
• Trading Standards will then decide upon and take any necessary action.

How Lorry Watch benefits communities

Lorry watch schemes in other parts of the country have experienced resounding success in reducing the number of HGVs passing along unsuitable routes. A reduction in HGVs means less damage to road surfaces, less noise and air pollution and a considerable reduction in money spent repairing damage caused by HGVs.

How can I help?

At Cambridgeshire Trading Standards we are very limited as to the amount of time we can spend enforcing each of the 56 Weight Restriction Orders in the county. We are therefore seeking volunteers to help us reduce HGV traffic on vulnerable routes. Volunteers can participate as little or as much as they wish and we will provide all materials needed.

If you would like further information about being an observer please contact us using the link on the right.