Farsighted project
Page 15
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The commercial drivers motel illustrated on page 18 could be built within a year. The imaginative Cossington project conceived jointly by a retired road haulier, a developer and a major catering organization typifies the likely pattern of accommodation in the future if drivers and employers in sufficient numbers press for it. Local authorities in all parts of the country are oppressed by lorries disturbing the peace and amenity of residential streets. The authorities cannot bite hard unless adequate lorry parks—and the necessary drivers' accommodation—exists.
Those behind the Cossington commercial motel believe an entirely fresh operating pattern must soon develop. Drivers will not be sent off with valuable loads to find their own accommodation en route. Accommodation, change-over points, any necessary transhipment facilities, will be organized in advance. Properly designed motel sites, often equipped with repair and breakdown facilities as at Gassington, would meet a serious social and economic need. Far too many drivers prefer the dubious comfort of a night in the lorry cab to low-priced accommodation.
A 150-bed motel of the standard illustrated could cost in the region of £300,000. Only a substantial catering organization could afford to meet an annual rental of £25,000 to £30,000. Yet on a two-thirds bed occupancy at the (probably too low) cost of 30s a night an income of £900 weekly seems feasible. Lorry parking (with an enhanced charge for security protection) would be an additional source of income.
Professional drivers paid as such will demand the kind of accommodation. BRS Ltd. is known to be considering motel developments. The R HA might have been expected to bring developers face to face with hauliers possessing suitable sites. The TGWU—for long supporters of drivers' welfare— could take a financial stake in lorry motels. The Minister of Transport should urge his chief, Mr. Anthony Crosland, to direct the thoughts of planning authorities to the claims of commercial motels.