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£8m for UK HGV drivers: Improved roadside facilities the aim as winners of government funding announced
On 11 September 2023, in its ongoing bid to help recruit and retain HGV drivers, the government has awarded £8 million – with a further £11 million to be allocated from industry – to provide significant upgrades to 39 roadside facilities across England.
Lorry drivers will benefit from increased HGV parking capacities, better security and improved welfare facilities, like showers, rest areas and restaurants.
The funding comes from the Government’s HGV Parking and Driver Welfare Grant Scheme and forms part of the up to £100 million joint investment to support the logistics sector and help boost economic growth.
"Today’s announcement will be welcome news for professional drivers using the UK’s roads network, who are often forced to take legally mandated rest breaks in their cabs, without access to hygiene facilities, due to a chronic lack of welfare provision on key routes,” said Kate Jennings, Director of Policy at Logistics UK.
“This announcement is a positive step forward and our members operating in England will welcome the planned improvements to facilities for them to access during the course of their working days.”
The measure is part of the Government’s 33 actions to address the shortage of HGV drivers and boost recruitment and retention.
The scheme draws on ‘The National Survey on Lorry Parking’ which provides important evidence as to what improvements are needed and where to boost the nation’s roadside infrastructure.
The second window for roadside facility operators in England to bid for further funding is now open and will close on 20 November 2023.
Read our short, exclusive interview with Roads Minister Richard Holden following the announcement.
Published On: 14/09/2023 15:00:00
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In brief
Council parking and electric vehicle strategies to be discussed
People in Portsmouth will soon have an opportunity to shape the future of parking and electric vehicles in the city if plans to consult are approved this week at a public decision meeting.
Portsmouth City Council are proposing the development of a parking strategy and electric vehicle strategy with the local community, to create a cleaner, greener, and better-connected city.
If plans are approved, a consultation will launch this month seeking feedback on the proposed objectives and policies. These have been developed with the support of key stakeholders with the aim of supporting the delivery of the transport strategy.
Primarily, the strategies will focus on encouraging sustainable travel options, providing reliable and accessible electric vehicle charging, reducing traffic congestion, supporting the council’s commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2030, reducing air pollution and improving health, delivering cleaner air for everyone in the city as well as supporting the economic development of Portsmouth and local businesses.
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said: "Parking is a major issue in Portsmouth, so it's important that we listen to our residents to develop a strategy that works for everyone wherever we can. “Electric vehicle ownership is ever increasing, and we want to support this shift to encourage cleaner journeys. I look forward to discussing the plans to ensure residents, businesses and visitors all have an opportunity to have their say to help shape the future."
The Transport Decision meeting will take place on Thursday 14 September 2023.
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