Isle of Man Guide

The public’s views are sought on proposed changes to some of the regulations governing coaches, goods vehicles and articulated (bendi) buses.

The first proposals would see the overall allowed length of two-axle coaches increased from 12 metres to 13.5 metres and drawbar combinations (motor vehicle and a trailer) from 18 metres to 18.75 metres. These changes would bring the Island’s legislation into line with current manufacturing standards in the European Union. As some manufacturers no longer build vehicles to the existing Isle of Man standards, the updated regulations will allow Isle of Man operators a wider choice when selecting replacement new or second-hand vehicles.

The second proposed change is to introduce legislation for the use of articulated (bendi) buses in the Isle of Man. This will allow an articulated (bendi) bus to be operated in the Island should any operator decide to introduce them to their fleet or, should tour operators use this type of vehicle, it would not restrict them from visiting the Island as is presently the case.

The third proposal governs the maximum total laden weight of articulated vehicles, with an increase recommended from 38 to 44 tonnes. However, it is stressed there will be no increase in vehicle dimensions and because such vehicles will have more axles, they cause less damage to roads on certain designated heavy vehicle routes.

Acting Minister for Infrastructure Graham Cregeen MHK explained:

‘Most articulated vehicle trailers carried on the ferry are operating at a reduced capacity to comply with existing weight legislation. Extra journeys have to be undertaken using more fuel, causing more wear on the road surface and disruption to other road users.’

‘The proposed increase will mean less pollution and less road surface wear due to fewer vehicle journeys, which will cause less congestion, thus benefiting other road users. We have evidence that 44000kg spread over six axles does less damage to the road surface than 38000kg spread over five axles, which is currently allowed. The vehicles and trailers that will operate at the higher weights are designed to carry these weights. In addition, a further requirement will be that all articulated vehicles exceeding 38 tonnes will need to be fitted with a low polluting Euro III engine.’

It’s also proposed that the maximum total laden weight of rigid heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) is increased:

• if fitted with two axles, from 16,260 to 17,000kg
• if fitted with three axles, from 24,390 to 25,000kg
• if fitted with four or more axles, from 30,490 to 31,000kg

Additionally, it is proposed that the maximum total laden weight of certain rigid HGVs with four or more axles be increased to 32,000kg, if they are fitted with steering with a design axle weight of at least 8,000kg. The same economic and environmental reasons apply as articulated vehicles. However, the Department would again stress that there will be no increase in vehicle dimensions as a result of this proposal. These vehicles already operate on the Island’s roads and the proposals will enable them to operate more efficiently.

A proposal relating to vehicles carrying large amounts of dangerous goods (fuels, corrosives, gases etc) is for drivers to be required to have additional training and be approved to drive such vehicles. In accordance with the European Agreement on the carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, it is proposed to exempt drivers for the carriage of dangerous goods packed in limited quantities from the requirements of the Isle of Man regulations.

The final proposal is for a Designated Roads Order to allow articulated vehicles exceeding 38 tonnes, but not exceeding 44 tonnes, to use certain designated roads but only within the Douglas area. A map showing these routes is available from the Department. The Department is also updating the existing designated routes for vehicles up to 38 tonnes in order to recognise changes to the highway network since the designated routes were last reviewed in 1995.

If you or your business are likely to be affected by the proposals and you have a technical query about the consultation, please contact Chief Vehicle Examiner Mark Pattison by e-mail: Mark.Pattison@gov.im or by calling him on 627431.

Further details of the various proposals can be found online at http://www.gov.im/consultations.gov or by request from Department of Infrastructure reception at the Sea Terminal in Douglas.

All comments on the proposals should be submitted in writing no later than 5.00pm on 5 November 2010, either by email to: Chris.Hannon@gov.im or by post to Mr Hannon at Department of Infrastructure, Sea Terminal Buildings, Douglas, IM1 2RF.

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