NSW council signs up to HML, PBS and Livestock Loading schemes.
A northern New South Wales council has voted in favour of opening up its road network to heavy vehicles in a move welcomed by the Livestock and Bulk Carriers Association (LBCA).
Gwydir Shire, which straddles the border with Queensland, has signed up to the Higher Mass Limits (HML), Livestock Loading and Performance Based Standards (PBS) schemes.
All schemes are aimed at improving heavy vehicle productivity through permitting operators to haul more freight per load or use innovative vehicle combinations in return for meeting a number of conditions.
The council brought in a consultant last year to determine if the shire’s road network could support heavier loads.
Gwydir has permitted almost blanket approval, with the exception of a handful of regional and shire roads.
In a message to its members, the LBCA says Gwydir Council’s decision is “a fantastic breakthrough”.
“The association has had a lot of contact with Gwydir Shire Council in the last few weeks and it is obvious they are taking a positive and proactive stance towards encouraging jobs and growth in the Shire. The flow-on effects are obvious,” the LBCA says.
It says trucking operators Cavanagh’s Transport, Stockmaster, Stocktrans and McCullock Bulk Haulage were vital in getting Gwydir in approving the schemes.