Moving abnormal loads – notification procedure

Hauliers wishing to move an abnormal load across Rochester Bridge on the A2 must notify the Rochester Bridge Trust, as well as the local highway authority (Medway Council) and Kent Police.

An abnormal load is a vehicle that has any of the following:

  • A weight of more than 44,000kg.
  • An axle load of more than 10,000kg for a single non-driving axle and 11,500kg for a single driving axle.
  • A width of more than 2.9 metres.
  • A rigid length of more than 18.65 metres.

Notice periods vary depending on the nature of the load.

This gives the Rochester Bridge Trust the opportunity to check the movement of an abnormal load will not place undue stress on the structures being crossed and will not be prevented or impeded by lane restrictions or put workers at additional risk during maintenance work.

To notify the Rochester Bridge Trust, contact:

Abnormal loads officer
Rochester Bridge Trust, Abnormal Load Service
c/o Cascade Software
Brixbury House
Down Lane
Compton
Surrey
GU3 1DQ
Tel: 01483 811822
9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday
9am to 4pm Friday
Email: rochester@abloads.com

To read a more detailed explanation of the Legislation & Notification Requirements, click here.