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Delayed Longer-semi report in danger of slipping off radar

21st January 2010
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Page 14, 21st January 2010 — Delayed Longer-semi report in danger of slipping off radar
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By Chris Tindall THE ISSUE of longer semi-trailers (LSTs) is in real danger of being fudged after it emerged that the government-comissioned report will now not be published before the spring.

The Department for Transport (DfT)-backed report might even slip off the radar altogether if a new government is in place following a widely-expected May general election.

A similar study into longer, heavier vehicles (LHVs) in 2008 led to a rejection of their use on UK roads, but the government said it would look into the viability of longer trailers instead.

The first study suggested that LSTs could deliver annual UK savings of up to 66,000 tonnes of CO2,87 million vehicle km and as much as 1.37m in net freight transport costs.

However, the DIE reveals the publication of the report has been postponed "to ensure that those involved in the industries affected ibv the issue] were able to contribute their evidence and views to the researchers".

A spokeswoman adds: "We want to ensure this research is well informed and thorough. This means gathering as much evidence as possible. We expect the research to complete in spring 2010, and we'll publish it later in the year."

Freight Transport Association managing director of policy James Hookham says the decision is threatening to bury the report.

He continues: -It's a shame, but we understand there are views that need to be expressed.

"We just need some political boldness to get on with it. It's the obvious thing to do and saves a lot of carbon. This isn't going to cripple a business or impose an undue safety threat."

Northern Ireland -based trailer-maker Muldoon Transport, which is currently testing a semitrailer and has had interest from a "few big national companies7says that it has contributed to the study.

• The Transport Research Laboratory has confirmed that it has been awarded a contrail to look al the use of 1.14Vs in Europe and the possible impact on the Weights and Dimensions Heavy Goods Vehicle Directive.

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