We are responsible for most roads in Leeds that are classified as public highways. Government regulations set out what types of vehicle (categorised by width, length, height and weight) may use public highways. Some roads which pass over or under bridges may not be suitable for all vehicles.
The movement of large or heavy loads and cranes is permitted provided they comply with government regulations. These are generally referred to as 'abnormal loads'.
The haulier responsible for moving the abnormal load is responsible for any problem that might be caused as a result of the abnormal load movement. Hauliers must notify Leeds City Council, in advance, of any abnormal load movement and indemnify the council against any problem that might occur as a result or damage which might be caused to the highway infrastructure. We require notification of the 'from' and 'to' addresses, the length, height and width, the axle weights and axle spacing, the route and the nature of the load. These details are entered onto our 'abnormal loads database'.
The haulier must survey the route in advance of notification to ensure it is suitable in respect of width and height clearances, long term roadworks etc. We check the route for any conflicts with road and bridge restrictions. The haulier can then be informed if a conflict exists. The haulage company must also notify other bridge owners.
Bridge owners
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Road bridges: Leeds City Council maintain most road bridges, culverts and other highway structures.
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M1, M62, M621 and A1 (M) Motorways: The Government's Highway Agency is responsible for these roads and their bridges. They employ "Area Agents" to maintain them.
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Footbridges: over and alongside public highways are maintained by Leeds City Council.
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River bridges: Leeds City Council are the owners of bridges over major rivers within the Leeds metropolitan district.
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Canal bridges: some Canal Bridges are owned and maintained by Leeds City Council and some by British Waterways.
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Railway bridges: over mainline railways are in most cases owned by Network Rail but in some cases by Leeds City Council.
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Disused railway bridges: over closed and disused lines are the responsibility of BRB (Residuary) Ltd.
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Private owners: there are a few privately owned bridges in Leeds.
Overloaded vehicles
It is illegal to overload or load vehicles in a way that makes them insecure or unsafe on the road. These are not classed as 'abnormal loads' and are therefore not the responsibility of the council to regulate. The police may prosecute anyone responsible for such vehicles on the road.