The government is changing regulations to allow longer trailers on GB roads, which it estimates will save 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere.

These longer trailers, known as longer semi-trailers (LST) measure up to 2.05 metres longer than a standard semi-trailer and can be towed by a lorry.

The move follows an 11-year trial to ensure LSTs are used safely on roads, and operators will be encouraged to put extra safety checks and training in place. The trial demonstrated that LSTs were involved in around 61% fewer personal injury collisions than conventional lorries.

Legislation was laid before the UK parliament on the 10 May 2023 to roll out the longer vehicles on roads from 31 May. The longer lorries will be able to transport consumer goods and retail products, as well as waste packaging, parcels, and pallets.

See: UK economy boosted by £1.4 billion as longer lorries roll out on roads – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)