Should the maximum legal truck load be raised from 44 to 53 tonne?

Opinion

Up to 5000 trucks will be eligible to carry heavier loads on public highways from next month.

The change has raised concerns about motorists' safety from the Automobile Association and the Green Party, which are also worried about damage to roads from the juggernauts.

Transport Minister Steven Joyce has announced that trucks carrying up to 53 tonnes will be allowed on specific routes from May 1, subject to the new permit system.

Even heavier rigs would be allowed "in very specific instances".

Should the maximum legal truck load be raised from 44 to 53 tonne?