HGV Drivers to Get Three New Lorry Parks in Kent

In an effort to reduce the number of lorries parked on the sides of roads during the overnight hours, Kent County Council is now looking at the possibility of building three new lorry parks capable of holding up to 200 vehicles apiece. If the plans come to fruition, the council hopes to see both foreign and domestic HGV drivers use the parks rather than pulling off to the side of the road.

Right now, lorries can be seen parking at the roadside in many places along motorways in Kent. This causes a problem inasmuch as it impedes traffic flow, especially during periods when Operation Stack is being implemented. Other problems have been mentioned as well; problems like litter, drivers defecating and urinating at roadside, and crime.

According to sources, the council is looking at locations in Dover, Shepway, and Swale. The council will pay for construction of the park, and then award contracts for their operation. Recovery of the funds would be realised through charging drivers for the services offered. However, those plans may prove to be counterproductive.

In the past, drivers have said they may choose not to use dedicated lorry parks because they are charged for parking in addition to the various services offered. Many have said they are more than happy to pay for a shower and a cup of coffee, but not for parking. Other drivers cite the unusually high prices at truck stops as reason why they do not purchase anything from them.

It remains to be seen whether the Kent Council will take driver concerns into consideration when planning the parks. Hopefully they will. It would be a shame to invest so much money only to have drivers continue parking at roadside.

HGV Driving

The question of where to park at the end of a long day is but one of the many challenges facing the nation’s HGV drivers. Nevertheless, it is a great career choice for those who are looking to be out and about rather than confined to an office or warehouse. Commercial driving offers adventure, good pay, and the ability to see new places.

The HGV Training Centre can help you embark on your career as a commercial driver. We offer comprehensive training that prepares you to take the two tests you need to earn your commercial driver licence. That first test, is the 100-question, multiple-choice theory test. You must pass before you can begin practical skills training.

To get started, all you need is a full car license and the time to train. After passing a routine medical exam and applying for your provisional entitlement, you will start training that will prepare you for the theory test. Once you pass, you will begin your practical skills training.

For more information about what we provide at the HGV Training Centre, just call us on the free phone number provided. In just a matter of weeks, we could have you ready to start looking for work as a professional HGV driver.

Sources:

Kent Online – http://www.kentonline.co.uk/folkestone_express/news/drive-to-cut-county-truck-stops-13450/