A survey by the Freight Transport Association (FTA) has found that the closure of essential truckstops across the UK is affecting haulage operators' ability to obey drivers' hours legislation. Just months after high profile, secure lorry parks, such as Alconbury on the A14 near Cambridge and Truckworld in Essex, closed down, three-quarters of operators say they are now experiencing operational difficulties.
One in seven say they are struggling to comply with legally required drivers' hours
rules on breaks one in five say their business is exposed to significant additional security risks and one in six operators have serious concerns over the personal safety of their drivers.
The FTA says a national strategy is needed so that highways authorities provide facilities for vehicles to stop. The FTA's Malcolm Bingham adds: "It is vital that where a truckstop is closed, local councils make contingency plans to accommodate the displaced trucks, otherwise drivers are forced to use industrial estates and local roads which lack appropriate facilities and impact on local residents."
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