London, UK: The UK government has allocated an additional £20m to improve truck driver road side facilities.
Logistics UK is calling on roadside service operators to apply for funding urgently so that improvements can be implemented fast.
Mags Simpson, head of policy engagement, Logistics UK said: “Today’s announcement is much welcomed news for this vital sector of the economy; Logistics UK members report that the lack of available lorry parking and suitable roadside facilities is one of the main barriers to recruitment.
“Lorry drivers are required by law to take regular rest periods, including overnight mandated rest breaks. It is vital that these key workers, who are charged with keeping the nation stocked with everything it needs, have a safe place to take these breaks, where they are also able to make use of much needed bathroom and catering facilities. It is essential that roadside service operators now make use of this additional funding and prioritise their applications.”
The funding is part of National Highways’ existing £169m Users and Communities Fund and, when added to the £32.5m previously committed in the budget, takes the total government investment in driver facilities to £52.5m since last year.
“Logistics UK looks forward to working with members and government to ensure the funding is used as effectively as possible, and to highlight further opportunities for improved driver facilities and increased lorry parking,” Simpson said.
The Road Haulage Association welcomed the £20m to improve roadside facilities.
The announcement comes after the association launched its RHA Facilities Campaign to press for better facilities for commercial vehicle drivers.
Tom Cornwell, RHA lead for infrastructure and operator licencing, welcomed the move but said more needs to be done to increase parking provision and improve facilities.
“This is encouraging news for our drivers who often tell us about poor facilities on the road but there’s a long way to go. We believe we need an extra 11,000 safe and secure parking spaces and we’re determined to tackle that shortfall by working with Government, industry and officials.”
The RHA is pressing ministers to work with industry to deliver long-term solutions, and update planning rules to help push through new developments.
The RHA urges everyone to sign their petition calling on the government to help improve driver facilities.
Ministers are encouraging roadside service operators to apply for the funding immediately.
