Laura Sharman 12 July 2018

Campaigners warn of prioritising capacity over safety on roads

Road safety campaigners have warned the Government should not put capacity over safety after figures revealed lorry traffic on motorways has increased 15% in five years.

A survey of drivers by Brake found more than three-quarters said too much freight is being transported on motorways. More than a quarter of those surveyed also thought it was likely or highly likely they would be involved in a fatal or serious crash at some point in the future.

Joshua Harris, director of campaigns for Brake, said: 'Drivers are particularly wary over the increase in freight traffic and it’s clear that trials of truck platooning will only exacerbate this concern.

'We urge the Government to prioritise safety over capacity and to ensure that any change to our road environment, such as all-lane running, is robustly tested, and the public properly informed, before the roll-out on our roads.'

Figures published last week show lorry traffic on motorways reached a new peak of 7.9 billion vehicle miles in 2017.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Armed Forces Commissioner

Ministry of Defence
£170,000 per annum
This is a unique opportunity to serve as the independent champion for Service personnel London (Greater)
Recuriter: Ministry of Defence

Executive Director Finance, Governance and Assets (s151)

East Surrey
£153,592 - £168,952
Local government in Surrey is being reshaped for the first time in more than 50 years. East Surrey
Recuriter: East Surrey

Transport Planning Officer Policy

Brighton & Hove City Council
£35,570 - £40,444
We are seeking candidates with experience of working in transport and an interest in developing policies and transport schemes... Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 3BQ
Recuriter: Brighton & Hove City Council

Social Work Consultant

Durham County Council
Grade 13 £48,738 - £53,051
Are you passionate about working with children and families?   This could be the post for you!   WHAT IS INVOLVED?  As Social Work Consultant you will Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Missing Children Coordinator

Durham County Council
Grade 7 £31,015 - £34,811
Are you passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people? Do you have experience working with children who go missing, exp Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner