The UK Parliament’s Transport Committee is set to examine whether enough progress has been made in improving facilities for heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers, several years after concerns about poor conditions were first raised. The session will review developments since the committee’s earlier investigation into the resilience of the UK’s road freight supply chain.
The original inquiry highlighted widespread shortcomings in facilities available to drivers across the country. Many lorry drivers reported a lack of safe and secure parking, limited access to basic amenities such as toilets and showers, and poor-quality rest areas. Improving these facilities was seen as essential not only for driver welfare but also for attracting new workers to the haulage sector.
As part of the new evidence session, MPs will hear from a range of industry representatives, including organisations representing freight operators, drivers and motorway service providers. Contributors are expected to include groups such as Transport Focus, the Road Haulage Association and Logistics UK, alongside trade union representatives and service station operators.
The discussion will explore whether government and industry initiatives have improved conditions since the pandemic exposed weaknesses in the freight system. During that period, shortages of drivers and limited facilities highlighted the importance of the logistics workforce in maintaining the supply of essential goods.
Industry groups have continued to argue that better rest areas, more secure parking and improved welfare facilities are vital for retaining drivers and strengthening the UK’s freight network. MPs will assess the progress made so far and consider what further action may be required to support the road haulage sector and its workforce.