There are three vital parts of long-distance logistics; those are skilled trained HGV drivers, comfortable and well-maintained lorries and service station facilities.
One of the most important universal rules for HGV drivers, particularly just after they pass their course and get onto the road is to be able to listen to their bodies and balance efficiency with personal health and safety.
This is why there are strict rules regarding driving hours, breaks and rest stops, and why service stations are a vital part of the UK’s road infrastructure; without the ability for drivers to refuel, refresh and rest, the country cannot keep moving safely.
This is why additional funding to the tune of £43m for HGV service infrastructure and truck stops is considered to be so important, particularly when it includes service areas designated exclusively for HGV drivers.
The initiatives that are put in force include additional secure parking bays, new transport restaurants, toilets, showers and rest areas where lorry drivers can safely rest as part of their travels, improving working conditions in the process.
Every truck stop needs to provide free separate parking for HGVs, both for conventional and abnormal loads, fuel and charging stations, free toilets and hygiene facilities without a mandatory purchase, as well as hot drinks and hot food.
All of this needs to be provided 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and the exact provisions have changed multiple times since the first motorway service station was constructed in 1959.
The biggest example of this, and something commonly discussed amongst older drivers was that until 2013, food did not have to be offered 24 hours a day. Snacks needed to be, as did hot drinks, but substantial meals only needed to be served from 6 am until 10 pm.
This has changed, and there will likely be further improvements as the lorry sector changes in order to meet the changing needs of a sector of skilled drivers vital to ensuring Great Britain keeps moving.