National planning policy must include a stronger representation for lorry parking provision, hauliers have urged ministers.

The government’s consultation on an updated national planning policy framework (NPPF) closed this week and the RHA said it had responded to the proposals pointing out that the industry was key to the country’s house building ambitions, as it relied on a reliable freight and logistics sector.

James Barwise, RHA policy lead, said: “We are pleased that the freight and logistics sectors have finally been acknowledged in the draft of the new NPPF as playing a vital role in a modern economy.

“But we would like to see more detail about how our industry can be supported on green infrastructure, lorry parking, warehouses, distribution centres and provision for coaches.

“We urge the government to update the NPPF to articulate a more positive narrative about our industry as an economic driver.

“We also call for lorry parking provision to have stronger representation in parts of the updated framework to ensure it is a consideration in more planning applications.”

Barwise added: “We have long called for NPPF reform and look forward to seeing how changes will help the transport sector drive economic growth.”

The ministry of housing, communities and local government said it was now analysing the feedback to its consultation.

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