UK decision on longer heavier vehicles could be made soon

A decision on whether to allow longer heavier vehicles (LHVs) up to 60 tonnes on UK roads could be made in this autumn.

According to Hazcomp managing director Kevin Buck, who has long been lobbying for a UK trial of LHVs, the results of a consultation into the use of LHVs, which could be as long as 25.25m, should become available within the coming months – with a policy decision announced soon afterwards.

The UK Government’s decision to end licensing restrictions on running longer semi-trailers (LSTs) has led to claims that a trial of LHVs could now be on the cards.

Last year, the DfT said it was looking for operators willing to trial LHVs and a consultation on the topic closed back in March.

Buck, who is also the cabinet member for highways and transport at Southend City Council, met recently with transport minister Richard Holden MP, who assured him that a feasibility study into the initiative would be available this coming autumn.