A NEW weight restriction has been introduced to protect residents in Ramsbottom from HGVs.

People living on the edge of the town centre had complained that lorries had been putting them at risk, especially along narrow highways.

Council highways chiefs say a 3.5 tonne weight limit was in place for The Rake and Chapel Lane. But this has now been extended to cover Carr Street, Callender Street, Dundee Lane and Tanners Street.

A Bury Council official said: "In spite of the existing 3.5 tonnes weight limit, local residents believe that there has been an increase in the volume of HGVs and this has prompted then to call for further action.

"There is a general concern among residents towards their safety when walking along narrow streets such as The Rake and Chapel Lane. In addition, properties are also affected by the vibrations caused by HGVs."

The move was discussed by the authority's traffic management unit last December before going ahead.