Drivers warned of 'abnormal loads' set to cause delays in Sunderland city centre

A total of six lorries will be carrying the loads of almost 115ft (35 metres) in length to the Port of Sunderland.

The lorries will be passing in an eastern direction through the city centre on Monday, January 23 between 9.30am and 3pm as sections of largse cranes are moved from manufacturer Liebherr in Deptford to the port to be exported.

The loads are up to 35 metres (114.8ft) long, as much as 6.1 metres (20ft) in width and weigh up to 130 tonnes.

The abnormal loads will travel under police escorts and, to avoid peak journey times, they are due to start travelling after 9.30am. They are scheduled to be finished before 3pm.

City centre drivers may face delays as the sections are transported along Deptford Terrace, A1231 Silksworth Row, St Mary's Boulevard, A1018 West Wear Street and High Street East.

Sunderland City Council's cabinet member for Dynamic City, Cllr Kevin Johnston, said: “While the movement of these cranes may cause some delays on city centre roads, it is impressive to see this example of goods manufactured here in Sunderland moving to the Port of Sunderland as they prepare to be exported.

“The movement has been programmed to cause minimal disruption, and we appreciate road users’ patience while these abnormal loads are transported to the port.”