HGV parking operators are urged to apply for funding to improve their facilities after a multi-million-pound scheme was extended for applications.
Launched in 2023, extra funding has been made available through the Lorry Park Improvement Scheme to increase capacity, improve security and boost welfare facilities such as toilets, showers and gyms at lorry parking areas.
Grants will cover 50% of capital costs and all lorry parking operators are invited to apply through National Highways’ website – including those who have already benefited from the scheme.
Combined with support from the Department for Transport, National Highways said nearly £69m had been unlocked to improve journeys, security and the wellbeing of HGV drivers.
The investment has already led to more than 500 new lorry parking spaces being made available, as well as improvements such as increased CCTV and fencing, as well as funding to refurbish shower and toilet facilities at around 130 sites.
“HGV drivers are a vital cog in our country’s economy, getting the goods and services we need around the country, often working round-the-clock to meet tight delivery times,” said Elliot Shaw, chief customer and strategy officer at National Highways.
“By improving features like security and opening up more parking spaces, we’re helping to ensure drivers feel well rested and safe on our roads. We’ve already seen the benefits this fund can provide, and we’re delighted to be able to extend applications to help fund upgrading more facilities.”
Ashton Cull, RHA senior public affairs lead, added: “HGV drivers are legally obliged to take regular breaks from driving to ensure they are operating their vehicles safely.
“This means that we must provide them places to stop to take those breaks and make HGV parking an essential part of our national transport infrastructure.
“But the fact is there is simply not enough secure HGV parking to keep our drivers both rested and safe from criminal activity: we estimate this country needs 11,000 additional spaces to accommodate the vehicles our economy relies on.”
