**Weight Limit Imposed on George Street Bridge in Newport Amid Safety Fears**
A significant restriction has been introduced on a key Newport crossing after engineers identified structural concerns, prompting questions over infrastructure safety in the region.
From 6pm on Friday, a temporary 7.5 tonne weight restriction was implemented for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) using Newport’s George Street Bridge. The move comes after detailed surveys indicated evidence of what was described as “degradation of concrete”. In response, authorities have announced that lorries and other large vehicles exceeding this limit must follow an official diversion route.
Council officials have emphasised that the decision to impose the weight limit was taken as a precaution to prevent further strain on the bridge, whilst ensuring that it remains accessible to most other vehicles. Those travelling by car, on foot, or by bicycle will not be subject to any changes, according to statements released by Newport City Council.
A council spokesperson provided reassurance, stating, “We have detected some areas where the concrete is degrading. In the interests of public safety, we need to temporarily limit heavy traffic over the bridge while we continue to investigate.” The representative further specified that these steps are designed to safeguard the long-term future of the structure, rather than being a response to any immediate risk to users below the imposed weight threshold.
For drivers of HGVs, the official diversion will reroute vehicles via Usk Way, incorporating the A48 Southern Distributor Road (SDR) and Corporation Road. Signage has been erected and police will be present at key points to assist with enforcement. Gwent Police have pledged cooperation with the council to ensure compliance and reduce confusion among motorists.
The timing and duration of the measures are yet to be confirmed. Council engineers are conducting more in-depth inspections of the bridge’s entire structure to ascertain the full extent of required repairs or reinforcement. “The current restrictions will remain until we have gathered enough data to make a longer-term safety assessment,” councils said, adding that updates will be provided as soon as more information is available.
The bridge, which serves as a crucial artery for local transport and commerce, sees frequent journeys by commuters, residents and logistics companies. With the upcoming investigation period, there are concerns from businesses operating in the area about potential disruptions or delivery delays. However, city leaders stressed the necessity of these actions to maintain public safety, and reassured the public that the rest of the bridge remains open as usual.
Routine and unprecedented inspections are a standard requirement for major infrastructure in the UK, particularly given challenges posed by weather and high usage over decades of operation. While concrete degradation is not unusual in older bridges, swift intervention is often needed once detected. Newport City Council have pledged to take all necessary actions and complete the required works as quickly and efficiently as possible.
As developments progress, residents and local businesses have been urged to keep abreast of updates from the council and local police. Motorists affected by the new diversion are encouraged to allow extra time for their journeys and to follow the revised routes in place.
The situation illustrates growing awareness of the importance of infrastructure maintenance across Wales, echoing wider national concerns. As the investigation continues, Newport residents will be waiting for assurances that their daily journeys can resume normality in the near future, while the safety of key local crossings is protected for years to come.