RHA pushes DfT for trailer length decision
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christopher.walton@rbi.co.uk THE ROAD HAULAGE Association (RHA) is calling on the Department for Transport (DfT) to clarify its position on whether it will allow longer semi-trailers on UK roads.
The industry is still waiting for the DfT to publish its report into the economic, technical and environmental impact of longer semitrailers. Industry sources believe the report is due at the end of this month and the RHA says it understands that a length limit of 15.65m is envisaged.
Transport minister Mike Penning says: “There may be a case for a small increase in the overall length of articulated lorries from 16.5m to 18.5m.
“However, this is an important decision, so it is right that we consider the evidence fully and we will publish this evidence once we have decided how to proceed. If we decide that there is a case for increasing trailer length, then our proposals will be subject to full public consultation.” RHA director of policy Jack Semple says the industry remains divided on the merits of longer trailers. “Some smaller haulage companies are in favour, some are not. And a few larger operators are not convinced, but several are.” However, he attacked the DfT for denying operators the chance to contribute their own views as they were being denied access to the report. “No doubt a formal consultation will be forthcoming and it may be that we will see the reports then – we would certainly hope so. But they should have been released before now.” Last week, Stobart Group revealed its plans for a longer trailer combination (see above), which it believes will work for several of its customers. At 14.55m, Stobart’s extended semitrailer with a rear-steering axle is 95cm longer than a 13.6m trailer (and 90cm shorter than the envisaged limit) and complies with all turning circle regulations. It can carry 51 roll cages rather than 45, and 28 rather than 26 pallets.
Stobart Group chief executive Andrew Tinkler says that, on some contracts, the increased length will allow it to cube out without exceeding weight limits – resulting in a 13% reduction in running costs for roll cages and 8% on pallet movements. “We are not trialling at the moment, but if some customers can beneit from the longer trailer it is something we would look at,” he says.
Freight Transport Association head of engineering policy Andy Mair says it supports an increase in the length of the articulated vehicle combination to 18.55m (15.65m semi-trailer length) as it would bring it broadly in line with a drawbar rig.