Town council urges locals to capture evidence of HGVs in Malmesbury
Residents asked to help tackle traffic issues in historic streets
Residents of Malmesbury are being encouraged to photographs and film heavy goods vehicles as they navigate the town’s historic streets.
Malmesbury Town Council is ramping up efforts to address concerns over HGVs using narrow roads and risking pedestrian safety and damage to historical buildings. They are urging people to submit their evidence to Wiltshire Police.
The town centre has a 7.5-tonne weight restriction, excluding access, covering Gloucester Road and Market Cross, yet heavy vehicles continue to pass through the town despite the availability of a bypass.
Residents can submit evidence through the National Dash Cam Safety Portal and are encouraged to share this with the town council, which will help identify repeat offenders.
Malmesbury mayor Cllr Robert Hastings emphasised the impact on the town’s historic streets, urging locals to assist in capturing evidence for Wiltshire Police’s Operation Snap.
Resident Jeffrey Manton previously described the situation as “pandemonium,” after an HGV damaged his Grade II listed home in 2021, causing significant financial damage.
Wiltshire Council is collaborating with enforcement partners to build intelligence for further investigations or referrals to the Traffic Commissioner.
Cllr Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways and transport, highlighted the importance of gathering consistent reports to assist authorities.