Lancashire-based McMurrays Haulage has launched a technology platform aimed at tackling the chronic shortage of secure overnight HGV parking by allowing hauliers to rent out spare spaces.

Park Safe has been developed by McMurrays Haulage and Aaron Conlon, the company’s 50% shareholder, whose IT background has helped shape the platform.

MD David McMurray said the concept is straightforward. “Hauliers with spare secure parking spaces make them available to other Park Safe members through a simple online platform.

“Drivers can book a secure parking space in seconds, while integrated technology can automatically open secure site gates at authorised locations.

“Artificial intelligence is also being incorporated to make the booking process and driver experience as straightforward as possible.”

The platform aims to help tackle the lack of secure HGV parking. The RHA estimates a national shortage of around 11,000 secure lorry parking spaces across the UK.

Further research from the RHA has revealed that 56% of responding lorry drivers have felt unsafe while parked overnight, with 43% reporting they were victims of theft or attempted theft, impacting driver welfare, recruitment and retention.

According to National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) cargo theft from trucks in the UK averaged over nine incidents per day in 2025, with NaVCIS recording 3,424 HGV cargo crime cases resulting in £65m in direct losses.

McMurray said Park Safe aims to these issues by creating a nationwide network of trusted operators who can securely accommodate one another’s vehicles.

“Rather than requiring huge investment in new infrastructure, the platform unlocks existing secure parking capacity across the country,” he said.

Membership costs are “modest” in comparison to the cost of hotel bills, parking charges, theft risks and operational inefficiencies, McMurray said, adding: “Drivers benefit from knowing they have a safe, secure place to park at the end of their shift.”

Key features include:

• Secure HGV parking booked in seconds.

• Integrated gate access at participating sites.

• National network of trusted hauliers.

• Simple driver and vehicle management.

• AI-assisted technology to streamline the booking process.

• Improved driver welfare and security.

• Reduced operating costs for fleet operators.