The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has outlined critical reforms for local authorities to implement in the freight sector.
- RHA urges combined authorities to use their influence to improve freight logistics and reduce congestion.
- The call includes comprehensive consultation with the industry concerning policies affecting air quality and road safety.
- The association seeks increased funding for local road projects and educational courses essential for the freight industry.
- Local elections in England present a crucial opportunity for mayors to support strategic freight sector improvements.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has strategically put forward a compelling list of recommendations aimed at local authorities, coinciding with the local elections scheduled for May. These propositions intend to galvanise the freight transport sector towards achieving net zero emissions. The RHA is actively seeking support from combined authorities, as their strategic capabilities can significantly impact freight operations, reducing congestion while also enhancing air quality and job provision—key components for economic productivity.
In its manifesto document, the RHA underscores the necessity for full industry consultation on impending policies that might affect the freight industry. These policies are inclusive of air quality control measures, initiatives to alleviate traffic congestion, and road safety regulations. By promoting this collaborative approach, the RHA hopes to ensure that any policy shifts are both feasible and beneficial, thereby avoiding undue disruption to freight operations.
A pivotal part of their proposal is the call for increased devolved transport funding to be channelled into defined local road enhancement projects. These projects are chosen specifically for their potential to improve regional freight corridors. This echoes a broader drive to not only facilitate effective logistics solutions but also to further regional economic development.
Addressing educational needs, the RHA points to a critical shortfall in the availability of technicians within the heavy vehicle sector. A decade ago, there was one technician for every 25 heavy vehicles; this ratio has deteriorated to one per 31 vehicles. This decline highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining viable training programmes, particularly for heavy vehicle technician apprenticeships. With technological advancements continually increasing the cost and complexity of training, alongside historically low funding, the RHA identifies these as urgent areas for intervention.
Moreover, the RHA advocates for the continuation and expansion of specific ‘bootcamp’ training schemes, which currently include Category C, and proposes new introductions for Category D, tyre fitters, and vehicle inspection roles. Richard Smith, RHA’s Managing Director, highlighted the integral role of combined authorities in strategic transportation planning, emphasising the need for sustained collaboration with the haulage and coach sectors alongside other significant stakeholders to stimulate both regional and national economic growth.
The upcoming local elections represent a crucial juncture for driving strategic improvements in the freight sector across England.
