Truck Operators warned to secure loads
The North West of England has been targeted by the Highways Agency for a crack down on litter from unsecured lorry loads on major roads.
The Highways Agency has introduced a new initiative to clean up Britains major roads. Together with HGV industry regulator, North West Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell, they aim to encourage commercial vehicle operators to stop their lorries and trucks spilling litter or debris on to the roads.
Highways Agency Traffic Officers and contractors will report any incidents to Mrs Bell who will then warn the truck operators that their licences could be at risk if they do not in future secure lorry loads properly.
The initiative in the North West could be rolled out across England if it proves to be a success.
Roads Minister Mike Penning said:
“Litter on the motorway and trunk road network is a serious issue. Not only is it unsightly it can also be very dangerous for road users. I am pleased that the Traffic Commissioner and the Highways Agency are working together to help tackle this problem in the North West and make journeys and the local environment more pleasant.
"Motorways are our safest roads but picking litter from them safely and without having to disrupt traffic is not straightforward. The simplest – and cheapest - solution would be if the rubbish wasn’t dropped in the first place, and I’d urge all motorists to help keep our roads clean.
"I also urge the public to report to the Highways Agency (0300 123 5000) any instances of litter being spilled from vehicles, such as lorries carrying skips, on motorways and major A-roads."
North West Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell, said:
“A major aspect of my role is to ensure that road users, including drivers of heavy goods vehicles, can use the roads safely. As a regulator of the HGV industry, my primary concern is to ensure that drivers and operators demonstrate the highest standards of safety and compliance.
“I fully support this initiative for Highways Agency Traffic Officers and contractors to report instances where the drivers of commercial operators have not ensured that their loads are secured effectively and I urge all operators to remind their staff of the safety implications of such incidents. Operators and drivers who are reported to my office may find themselves subject to consideration of disciplinary action.”
