Task & Finish Group Report: The importance of raising the security standards of lorry parking facilities

Being in charge and control of a rig that could in and of itself be worth over £100,000.00, weighing up to 44t and capable of carrying cargo valued into the millions of pounds, the role of the HGV driver comes with great responsibility and should not be underestimated. The myriad responsibilities arguably should not include having to make difficult decisions as to where they should take their statutory daily and weekly rest periods.

Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers are critical to the country’s economy and were duly recognised as such through the recent pandemic period as essential workers. A fleet of approximately 437,000 Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV’s) move 89% of all freight in the UK. The industry is critical to the smooth operation of supply chains that impact all business and vital in not only maintaining but ensuring the future growth of our economy. 

The road haulage and transport industry employ over 1.8 million people contributing £13.5 billion to the UK economy each year, accounting for 5.6% of the UK’s GDP.

The aim of the report is to consider the risk landscape by mapping hot spots for related criminal activity, considering trends and opportunities to improve standards, promote good practice and reduce incidence of crime at those locations.This report has been developed as a deliverable through an industry led Department for Transport (DfT) Task and Finish Group to examine how standards of lorry parking facilities can be raised nationwide - and how the next generation can be encouraged to join the industry.