Lorry drivers across England could benefit from more parking spaces, better welfare facilities and safer rest areas as the Government opens up bids for more funding to improve truckstops.
On Tuesday 7 May, Roads Minister Guy Opperman has confirmed that truckstop operators in England will be able to bid for up to £315,000 each to markedly improve their facilities. Upgrades could include new showers and restaurants, as well as better lighting and secure fencing around rest areas so drivers can feel safer and sleep with greater peace of mind.
The measures could also create new parking spaces for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to free up local roads, let lorry drivers park more easily and help tackle congestion.
The Depoaretment for Trasnport (DfT) said that the decision to open bids for further funding follows £31 million in joint Government and industry investment for similar improvements as part of the fund’s first and second application windows.
Roads Minister, Guy Opperman, said: “Lorry drivers are part of the backbone of our economy. That’s why we are opening up the third round of funding to continue providing truckers with a hearty breakfast, a warm shower, and a safe place to rest and recover.”
“Following our Plan for Drivers and the record £8.3 billion increase to resurface roads, launching the third round of funding to improve truckstops continues to show we’re on the side of all motorists, as we support jobs, grow the economy, and deliver a brighter future for all.”
The measures are part of the Governments plan to grow the economy by improving working conditions and safety for lorry drivers, supporting new jobs in the haulage industry and attracting more people towards a brilliant career in logistics.
The scheme draws on the national survey on lorry parking, 2022, which provides important evidence as to what improvements are needed and where to boost the nation’s roadside infrastructure. With hauliers required to take mandatory breaks and rest periods, building better roadside facilities will improve the quality of HGV drivers’ rest and recovery, ensuring everyone can feel safe on our roads.
Operators are encouraged to submit their applications here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hgv-parking-and-driver-welfare-grant-scheme-guidance-for-applicants