Unite union demands new Brexit HGV parks meet drivers' welfare needs

Unite has pledged to stand up for lorry drivers and make the government ensure there are adequate welfare facilities installed at the huge HGV parks in Kent currently under construction.

The union said it would not allow MPs and local councillors to “look the other way” as lorry drivers were denied basic rights, resulting in a public health crisis.

The parks are being built to deal with delays caused by increased checks and paperwork following the country’s withdrawal from the European Union.

And although the government has admitted substantial delays are possible, the union said no information has been provided about what welfare facilities will be provided for professional HGV drivers, such as toilets, washing facilities, hot food and rest areas outside of vehicles.

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Phil Silkstone, Unite regional officer, said: “This is a huge public health issue, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Unless there are adequate welfare facilities then it is inevitable that the local environment will be damaged.

“The government has had years to plan for how transport will be managed post-Brexit but it has singularly failed to do so.

“The health and safety of drivers must not be put at risk as a result of the government’s failings.”