Longer Semi Trailers Trials to Begin
20/12/2011
Following its recent consultation, the Department for Transport (DfT) has given the go-ahead for a ten year trial of up to 900 semi-trailers at an increased length of 2.05 metres, and 900 at an increase of one metre. The longer lorries will operate within the existing weight limit of 44 tonnes.
Current UK regulations limit the maximum loading length of semi-trailers to 13.6 metres. Under the trial, the DfT will be permitting the limited use of semi-trailers with a maximum loading length up to 15.65 metres. The changes would make the total permitted length for articulated lorries, drawing the longer semi-trailers, 18.55 metres.
The DfT state that the research underlying the consultation proposal suggests that high volume semi-trailers have potential environmental, safety and congestion benefits. They also state that the longer semi-trailers would allow up to 13% more loading space than current articulated lorries, resulting in fewer journeys needed to transport the same volume of goods.
Road Minister, Mike Penning, said:
"The road haulage industry is vital to the growth of our economy. By allowing companies to use one truck where they may have previously needed to send two, we can help the sector improve efficiency and save money, which should in turn benefit consumers.
"Independent research showed the potential environmental, safety and congestion benefits of longer trailers and this voluntary trial will give industry the opportunity to demonstrate how this works in practice.
"The trial will be subject to rigorous annual assessments and will be closely and independently monitored throughout so that any concerns are addressed quickly."
On the release of the statement by the DfT, giving th go-ahead for the trial, URTU General Secretary, Bob Monks said;
"Professional drivers operating such equipment should expect to be paid more for utilising additional skills in operating such a trailer. Such improvements in remuneration could be paid for from the increased revenue generated as larger quantities of goods can be transported at any given time".
The ten year trial will commence in January 2012.
