RHA welcomes lorry parking investigation

Date: 15/11/2011

The government's decision to conduct research into lorry parking provision will help to reduce barriers restricting the development of this sector.

This is according to the Road Haulage Association (RHA), which welcomed the investigation announced last week by the Department for Transport.

RHA Infrastructure Manager Chrys Rampley said the report shows ministers are committed to progress and the adoption of a unified scheme across the European Union to improve standards for truck stopping spaces.

She noted not having enough suitable places to park can reduce safety for drivers and prevent firms from transporting goods in an efficient manner.

"The lack of secure facilities also means that drivers and their loads are also at greater risk of crime, as high value loads have to be parked at the roadside," Ms Rampley continued.

“The road freight industry is the lifeblood of the UK economy and is helping to haul us out of a recession,” commented Chris Douglas, Director of TTR and a specialist freight transport consultant. “We need to apply some 21st century solutions to better manage official truck parking locations, including offering real-time space availability information to drivers, along with the ability to book truck parking spaces in advance. Applying industry expertise and technology go hand-in-hand in developing a tangible, long-term solution for industry.”

Posted by Mary Treen