Roadway Update 4 September 2019

Spending Review – a golden opportunity missed

Although focusing on spending, the Road Haulage Association is disappointed that Chancellor Sajid Javid made no mention of the keenly anticipated reduction in fuel duty in today’s Spending Review.

“Recent weeks have seen much speculation of a 2ppl fuel duty cut,” said RHA chief executive Richard Burnett. “Today’s Spending Review would have been a golden opportunity for the Chancellor to provide a much-needed shot in the arm for one of the nation’s key industry sectors”.

“With only 41 working days left until Brexit, this is a critical time for hauliers. Now, more than ever, they need some good news.”

Read the full story on RoadwayLive.

RHA responds to tyre consultation

The Road Haulage Association has responded to a Department for Transport (DfT) consultation on banning tyres over 10 years old.

The Association is supporting the legal ban of tyres over 10 years old on steering axels only. This precautionary measure would reassure other road users and make maintenance regimes clearer.

However, the RHA is opposing all other elements of the ban. Tyre age is seen to be far less important for road safety than proper maintenance. Whatsmore, the evidence needed to support the ban on 10-year old tyres on all axles is not considered sufficient.

Get the full story on RoadwayLive.

Councils’ call for powers to fine truckers is a cash generator

The RHA says that a move to give councils powers to fine lorry drivers is about generating revenue.

Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the Government to allow councils to enforce against moving traffic violations. Similar powers are already available to councils in London and Wales.

RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett says that the LGA sees truckers as an easy target for cash-strapped councils to make up shortfalls in reduced central government funding.

Get the full story on RoadwayLive.

Chris Ashley joins the RHA

RHA's new Policy Advocate for Environment and Regulation, Chris Ashley introduces himself to the industry.

Bringing with him 18 years’ experience in the civil service as well as a family background in haulage, Chris is delighted to join the RHA as the voice of the haulier on environmental and regulatory issues.

Chris said, “I’m clear that central and local government must move away from perpetually blaming and penalisinghauliers for going about their daily business. They must instead focus on smarter ways to improve our environment so that it is a shared endeavour. As a start, I look forward to working with the authorities to implement intelligent solutions to Clean Air Zones”.

Get the full story on RoadwayLive.

Keeping Kent moving after Brexit

The RHA is welcoming news that an extra £20 million has been pledged to keep Kent moving post-Brexit. The government funds will be used to mitigate the threat of delays and disruption to roads as part of Operation Brock.

“It’s clear that Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps and his team have grasped the importance of a contingency plan to tackle congestion in Kent, post-Brexit,” said RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett.

“The plans for Manston Airport and the implementation of border readiness checks to ensure drivers comply with Operation Brock are of course encouraging. However, we are still in the dark as regards clarity over the actual border crossing requirements.

Read the full story on RoadwayLive.

Love the Lorry preparations step up a gear

Big preparations are underway as part of the fifth annual celebration to get the nation loving the lorry. From huge truck rallies to career fairs and school trips, RHA members are going all out this year for national Love the Lorry Week.

The Road Haulage Association is calling on all it’s members to get involved and spread the lorry love. So if you’re planning to hold an event from 16-22 September or would like to, you’ve still got time to get in touch!

A £100 voucher is also up for grabs on social media. Find the RHA on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn and share a video, picture or post telling us why you love the lorry. Don’t forget to use the hashtag, #LoveTheLorry

Find out more on the RHA website.