Drivers of restricted or wind susceptible vehicles should divert via an alternative route as early as possible. Restricted vehicles arriving at the bridge may be turned back by the police or Highways England Traffic Officers.

It is every driver’s responsibility to consider the safety of their own vehicle and that of other road users. Drivers must consider both the condition and stability of their vehicle (overturning) as well as the security of any loads being carried which could be blown off causing danger to others.

Typical examples of loads that can be blown off vehicles during high winds include wheel trims and bodywork panels, roof racks carrying bikes, canoes, and suitcases etc, tarpaulin covers and side curtains and loose items carried in flat-bed type vans and trucks.

If you are in any doubt, please contact Bridge Control on 01752 361577 (dial ‘1’ if outside office hours) for advice.

The Tamar Bridge uses a 4 stage Wind Restriction procedure as follows:

* Depending on wind direction

To avoid making constant changes, we look for rising or falling wind speed patterns of at least twenty minutes.

We use maximum gust speeds rather than average wind speeds, as these give the best indication of the likely ‘push and pull’ forces drivers may experience. We also take into account wind direction and prevailing traffic flows and speeds.

The above procedures have been in place for several decades and have proved effective in balancing the need to keep traffic moving whilst maintaining acceptable levels of safety for drivers and staff.

Variable message signs warn of restrictions on most approaches to the bridge.
Regular travel updates on local and national radio stations may also be made as well as local social media broadcasts.

For latest Tamar Crossings travel status, please see:

– Tamarcrossings Website

– Twitter – Tamarcrossings

– Facebook – Tamarcrossings