The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is urging the UK government to follow through on its promise made two years ago to provide safe parking spaces for HGV drivers charged with keeping goods moving throughout the pandemic and beyond.

Two years after the government pledge, FTA’s members report provision has not improved, and many are forced to take their rest breaks in unsafe locations with inadequate welfare, hygiene and sanitation facilities.  

Chris Yarsley, Policy Manager for Road Infrastructure at FTA said, “The COVID-19 outbreak has brought home how vital lorry drivers are to society and the economy; they are working tirelessly, and bravely, to provide the goods the nation needs to get through the pandemic. Yet the government fails to provide them with even the most basic provision: secure, safe places to park during their rest periods with access to adequate welfare, hygiene and sanitation facilities. No other industry would be expected to operate in such conditions; the government has no excuse not to deliver on its promises.” 

The Department for Transport’s National Survey of Lorry Parking identified that there is an immediate need for more than 1,411 parking spaces across the country, to enable drivers to take their legally mandated rest breaks without concerns for security and safety. In the South East alone, 37% more overnight parking spaces are required to meet basic demand.  

Mr Yarsley continued, “This shortfall of parking spaces is forcing drivers to take their rest periods in unsafe, undesirable locations, such as industrial estates, in laybys or on public roads. In an industry where you are compelled by law to take regular breaks and rest, adequate provision to do so must be provided. Two years on from the commitment made by ex-Road Minister, Jesse Norman MP, we need action – the nation’s HGV drivers deserve so much more.” 

Photo: Chris Yarsley.