DfT wants truckstops’ and drivers’ say on longer trailers
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By Chris Tindall TRANSPORT MINISTER Mike Penning has called on all HGV drivers and truckstop operators to respond to proposals that would increase the length of semi-trailers by more than two metres.
A consultation into the impact of allowing articulated vehicles up to 18.75m long on UK roads was launched on 30 March, and Penning is urging all within the sector to respond.
“We know that there are people working in the industry that have valuable knowledge and experience to share, but don’t have the time to ill in a full consultation response,” he says.
“However, we are still interested in hearing from you, even if you only want to offer views on a particular issue or question.” The Department for Transport (DfT) wants to know if HGV drivers and lorrypark operators agree that there will be beneits to increasing the length by 2.05m; what costs would be incurred by the increase; and whether drivers are paid per pallet or per load.
Both the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Freight Transport Association have yet to formally respond. “It’s a complicated issue; there are quite a few downsides,” says RHA policy director Jack Semple. “We have members who are in support on an increase in trailer length, but the majority is against it as far as we can tell.” Penning’s request comes as the Dutch government announces that it is giving permanent legal status to 25.25m, 60-tonne HGVs following a trial. The UK consultation ends on 21 June. Responses should be emailed to FREIGHT@ dft.gsi.gov.uk