HALIFAX — Larger, heavier truck loads will be allowed on a selected group of roadways in Nova Scotia.

At the behest of the Atlantic trucking industry, the province has increased the weight limit by 6,000 kg — from 41,500 kg to 47,500 kg — for six-axle tractor-trailers only.

The amended regulations create a new class of "intermediate" weight roads (click here for a complete list of approved roads) that previously came under the designation of "all other highways," which were limited to 41,500 kg loads.

"An increase of 6,000 kilograms on these tractor trailers will actually reduce pavement damage because fewer trips will be required to move a fixed amount of product," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Brooke Taylor in a press release. "In fact, because the weight of the trailer is being spread over more axles, it means there will be less wear and tear on the roads."