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iibut picture across UK grows worse MORE THAN three quarters
Page 8
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of UK hauliers questioned for a Freight Transport Association (FTA) survey report that recent truckstop closures are causing problems. The shortage of truckstops in the UK has been made worse by the closure of several sites in 2007, including Alconbury on the A14 near Cambridge.
The FTA's latest quarterly activity survey confirms that the truckstop crisis has put the security of drivers and their loads at risk with one in five operators talking of significant additional security risks. This is especially so where loads are of high value or vulnerable to theft or terrorist attack, such as fuel tankers.
One in seven operators also report problems with complying with the hours rules because there is nowhere to stop to take breaks; one in 10 have had to change routes as a result.
Most operators say the most important aspect of a truckstop is secure parking and security for drivers, followed by 24-hour catering and toilets.
The FTA says truckstops are particularly important on the major trade routes, such as those linking Felixstowe and Harwich with the Midlands.
Malcolm Bingham, FTA head of road network management policy,says:"Truck drive rs operate under strict drivers' hours rules, requiring regular breaks and rests. The government must not legislate for frequent stops by drivers then fail to ensure that appropriate facilities are available."