Overnight parks
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• Calling for a proper programme co-ordinating lorry parks, overnight driver accommodation and catering facilities, the August issue of Freight, the official journal of the Freight Transport Association, says: "Local authorities faced with this problem must not simply shrug their shoulders, blame the vehicle operator and, using the amenity powers under the Transport Act, tell him to go away. They should first examine the reasons for overnight parking in any particular area.
'Factors they should evaluate include the close vicinity of docks, industrial areas, markets, etc.: lack of proper parking facilities; companies operating without sufficient depot space: non-availability of land for depots; lack of public transport to parking area on outskirts for drivers who have to make an early start; lack of public transport in reverse direction for those who finish late at night: greater security if driver is near vehicle; peak-hour loading bans which necessitate a driver coming overnight if he is to unload before they apply: increase in number of vehicles having to park because of decreased drivers' hours; and drivers who have to stop to take statutory breaks.
"In most cases. there will be a sound economic reason for parking. If it is to be prohibited on the road, then provision must be made off the road. Local authorities must use their other powers under the Transport Act covering the provision of off-street parking facilities, acquisition of land, etc. The Act also lays an onus on them to provide suitable and adequate parking facilities on and off the highway.
"Perfection cannot be achieved overnight, and designated street parking places may be required in the short term, but one way or another accommodation and convenient accommodation must be found before bans are introduced".