LORRY drivers have been warned about taking shortcuts over weak bridges in Suffolk, or risk being fined. The county council, through its trading standards department, is clamping down on heavy lorries illegally travelling on weight-restricted roads and bridges.

LORRY drivers have been warned about taking shortcuts over weak bridges in Suffolk, or risk being fined.

The county council, through its trading standards department, is clamping down on heavy lorries illegally travelling on weight-restricted roads and bridges.

Road traffic officers said it was common for large lorries up to 10 times over the weight limit to ignore road signs and use the bridges. If drivers are found to be in breach of weight restrictions or overloading their vehicles, they will be taken to court and fined.

Joanna Spicer, portfolio holder for public protection, said: “These roads and bridges have a restriction on them for a reason and lorry drivers who use them as a cut-through are breaking the law.

“The county council has both an enforcement and a maintenance role when it comes to bridges but what can't be forgotten is the impact these overweight vehicles have on the local community.

“Drivers may feel that saving a few minutes on their journey is worth the risk, but for local people these are a daily danger to them and other road users.”