A SOLUTION to the problem of satellite navigation systems sending lorries down inappropriate roads could soon be over thanks to new research.

A SOLUTION to the problem of satellite navigation systems sending lorries down inappropriate roads could soon be over thanks to new research.

There have been numerous incidents where HGVs become wedged under restricted bridges and sent down dead ends by the electronic devices.

But the glitches in the equipment are to be ironed out by Suffolk County Council, which is working with Somerset County Council and mapping companies to eliminate the problem.

Guy McGregor, Suffolk's portfolio holder for roads and transport said: “For some time now Suffolk has had a problem with HGVs being inadvertently directed onto unsuitable roads or under height restricted bridges.

“I am delighted that our work to combat this issue has been highlighted by the Department of Transport, and we look forward to working with Somerset to get critical information regarding the highway infrastructure on to sat-nav systems in the future.”

The overhaul of the way the systems work will include working with various mapping companies on piloting specific HGV routing and working with freight associations and private firms on new hardware specification.

The production of special county and regional freight maps is also part of the common work by both councils, as is the piloting of “truck friendly” sat-nav systems.

Only last week it emerged that the hi-tech direction finders were causing problems in Trimley St Martin by sending motorists into a dead end when they programme in the village sports field.

Have you found yourself in a dead end thanks to a sat-nav system? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk