Lorries using village as cut-through cause havoc

24 September 2025

Kirsten RobertsonBBC Wiltshire

News image — Lorries are banned from Bishops Cannings until October 6

Sean Crombie A large blue lorry on a narrow road with a small red Mini trying to pass by. — Lorries are banned from Bishops Cannings until October 6

People fear "gridlock" and damage to their homes as lorries started using their village to avoid a road work diversion.

Repairs to the A361 near Devizes, Wiltshire, has led to the southern stretch into the market town being closed.

Lorries are supposed to take a detour via Calne, however many are said to be passing through the small winding roads of nearby Bishops Cannings instead.

Wiltshire Council has urged villagers to take pictures of lorries passing through so enforcement action can be taken.

Ali Kent A car and a van follow a bus through a narrow road where a tractor is approaching the oncoming traffic. Cones form a make-shift pavement on the left hand side and houses and fences can be seen on the right. — There are particular concerns about the increased traffic at school pick-up and drop-off times

Ali Kent, clerk at Bishops Cannings Parish Council, said: "We've worked really hard to get extra measures put in place but people are still speeding through."

Local resident Sean Crombie said he is concerned about damage to his home: "I'm worried about the thatch roof. I've got a Ring camera on the way so I can hopefully protect the house with more heavy goods vehicles coming through the village.

"During the rush hour, it has caused a bit of havoc. "

Martin Holstead A large blue lorry passes a red parked car with trees and grass in the background of the image. — Residents have been told to send photos of lorries to Wiltshire Police

Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, stressed that the situation is being monitored and is aware of drivers using the village as a "cut-through."

"There is an enforceable 7.5 tonnes (except for access) weight limit on Chandlers Lane, which is actively enforced by the police.

"If people do spot any HGVs breaching the weight restrictions, we would encourage them to take a photo or video, where possible, and report it to Wiltshire Police," he said.

"We hope drivers will get used to the diversion route over the next few days, helping to keep the village safe and minimise disruption for local residents while the work is completed."