Less crossing closures in high winds, urges Dartford MP (From News Shopper)

Less crossing closures in high winds, urges Dartford MP

11:34am Thursday 2nd February 2012 in News By Jim Palmer

A REDUCTION in Dartford Crossing closures in high winds has been sought by Dartford MP Gareth Johnson.

Government Transport Minister Mike Penning MP said he has asked the Highways Agency to review whether total closure of the Queen Elizabeth II bridge is the only option in bad weather.

In response to a question from Mr Johnson on Wednesday, about whether there were plans to reduce closures of the bridge, Mr Penning said: “I have asked the Highways Agency to look into whether total closure of the bridge is the only viable option, when the risk is limited to high-sided vehicles, or whether the bridge could in future remain open to cars only.”

Mr Johnson said he looks forward to the Highways Agency’s findings, adding: “While safety should not be compromised there are often times when the bridge should be closed to high sided vehicles but not to cars.

“It is common sense that should prevail and not over-enthusiastic health and safety considerations”