A SUBSTANTIAL response of over 10,000 signatories to the petition calling on the government to Review Planning Legislation to include facilities for HGV Drivers’ has initiated a response from Westminster, as follows:
‘We recognise the importance of high quality facilities for HGV drivers, which is why we’ve encouraged Local Planning Authorities and developers to consider overnight facilities where appropriate.
‘We have recently introduced policy that local plans and decisions should recognise the importance of adequate overnight lorry parking facilities. Consequently, proposals for new or expanded distribution centres should include provision for sufficient lorry parking to cater for their anticipated use. This policy is set out in our National Planning Policy Framework which must be taken into account when local authorities are preparing their local plans and is a material consideration in planning decisions.
‘We are working closely with DfT and across government to consider innovative ideas to boost the quality of HGV facilities. As part of this, we will look to understand how our policy is working in practice, and to identify further opportunities for planning to support high quality HGV facilities.’
The independent Petitions Committee will consider this response. They can press the government for action and gather evidence. If this petition reaches 100,000 signatures, the Committee will consider it for a debate.
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