Transport associations discuss snow measures with Scottish govt

Date: 24/12/2010

Discussions have taken place between the Scottish government and two transport associations on how lorries can keep moving as the wintry weather continues.

The Freight Transport Association and Road Haulage Association (RHA) suggested to ministers that they might want to consider lorry stacking, using winter tyres and implementing a messaging system that includes weather alerts for drivers as potential measures for the short and long term.

Such tactics could help HGV drivers to get to their destinations more easily and ensure shop shelves are kept stocked.

Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown said the meeting had brought up a number of practical issues relating to how the country can better prepare for bad weather in the future.

This is especially important "if the unprecedented weather conditions experienced in recent days are to become more commonplace," he remarked.

RHA Scotland and Northern Ireland Director Phil Flanders said he anticipates working further with the Scottish government to ensure "a balanced approach" to maintaining traffic flow.

Posted by Mary Treen