Weight limit in Dobcross Square proposed

Saddleworth parish councillor Max Woodvine has proposed the introduction of a weight limit in Dobcross Square to prevent any more damage in the centre of the historic village.

Last September, the 'Ramsden Memorial' landmark was toppled for the second time in just five years. 

The 10 tonne monument was knocked over by a 40ft long lorry, before it crashed into an ancient cottage. It had to be restored by a team of dedicated engineers using special lifting gear to its plinth in the village's cobbled square. 

After that, the village's parish councillor Mr Woodvine launched a petition for residents to sign to stop Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) using Sat Nav systems which aren't designed for them, in a bid to "prevent further damage and chaos in the historic village". 

Now, Cllr Woodvine wants a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) introduced in the village square, which could see a weight limit introduced. 

He said: "A weight limit would be a legal control imposed to protect the character of Dobcross. It has been some months since that chaotic day which resulted in thousands of pounds in damage, so I will be working constructively to prevent the situation from reoccurring in future.

"Rather than wait for it to happen again, it is much better to take action now. If a HGV needs to make deliveries to the Swan Inn or other businesses, they will be exempt from the TRO but I hope that they would be so courteous as to use Sugar Lane which is much more suitable." 

Cllr Woodvine adds that the matter will be brought forward at the next meeting of the Traffic and Transport Committee, once Saddleworth has returned to normality following the coronavirus pandemic. 

RESTORATION: Engineers worked to restore the memorial to its former glory after it was knocked over in September 2019. 

Main image:

Saddleworth parish councillor Max Woodvine in Dobcross Square.