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Longer, heavier trucks (LHVs) could be allowed to run in the UK at 25.25m, but at a maximum 44-tonne limit. This is just one of eight proposals currently being considered by consultants to the DfT - the results of which are due to be sent to the minister in the autumn. The other seven ideas under consideration are:

• To retain current regulations but explore better use of double decks.
• To allow artics to enjoy the same 18.75m length limit as today's drawbars.
• Same  as above, but a modest weight increase to compensate for the extra unladen weight.
• To allow 25.25m LHVs, but at 50 tonnes to compensate for the extra unladen weight.
• To allow 25.25m LHVs at 60 tonnes (the Denby solution).
• To allow 34m LHVs (the Stan Robinson-type set-up), but payload neutral.
• To allow 34m LHVs at 82 tonnes.

"My view is that if LHVs can safely run at 60 tonnes they should be allowed to do so," says Dick Denby, who has campaigned for the vehicles. He also suggests that to protect the rail freight sector, 60 tonnes could be allowed in container transport but limited to 50 tonnes for other transport for a defined period.