HGV Driver Numbers Improving
Driver numbers may be looking rosier than they have done in the past 24 months, but there is still a long way to go when it comes to retaining those drivers and providing them with the facilities that they deserve, according to a leading industry body.
Logistics UK has highlighted that commercial drivers in the UK are still getting a raw deal when it comes to proper services and facilities, including a lack of safe and pleasant rest places and decent hygiene provisions at services. The findings have been so bad that the Head of Cities and Infrastructure at Logistics UK is now calling for urgent reform and insisting that planning is approved for more parking facilities on major routes up and down the UK, as well as asking for private sector investment and support to deliver facilities that are expected and currently already being enjoyed on the continent. The UK currently ranks extremely low for driver provisions compared to other European countries and this is something that has prevented good driver retention for many years.
Urgent Demand In Overnight Parking
Recent reports highlighting previous drivers’ experiences and feelings also consistently showed that aside from low wages, drivers left the sector because the facilities were that bad that they felt unsafe and unclean. Many cited ‘disgusting’ rest rooms and many commented that some of the rest stops they had been to, they didn’t actually rest because they felt that the area provided for them wasn’t safe.
According to many drivers, one of the biggest improvements that could be made in terms of services is finding the money to pay for premium security at rest places. Many drivers said they were no security guards based at facilities and because of this they felt uneasy and like sitting targets.
A Plea For New Funding
Funding needs to come thick and fast. This is a problem that’s happening right now but will take years, if not decades, to put right.
Without help, and quick, we are going to face huge problems. When you compare the UK to countries like Germany, and their facilities, you'll see that we are at least a decade behind what they have.
Michael Seam
Transport Manager At A Large Distributor
The German Template
Most UK drivers won't normaly travel across the continent as part of their work. We think many will be surprised by just how much of the planning is devoted to HGV Drivers and overnight facilties. It's almost like their Government isn't against against them, and genuinely value their drivers.
On main motorway and duel carriage ways, every 10-15 miles will be large sidings where vehicles can park up over night, spaces for 200 large HGV's is the norm.
And it's all free for drivers and hauliers.