Lorries weighing 60 tonnes could be allowed on UK roads despite resitance from UK ministers

Leaked EU proposals have revealed that huge 60-tonne lorries could be introduced on the UK’s roads in a move welcomed by freight and haulage associations,

A report from the EU’s Motor Vehicle Working Group states that Brussels intends to ‘redesign’ directives.

Heavier and longer continental vehicles could be introduced to ‘harmonise’ lorry weights across Europe.

Governments are able to opt out at the moment, but the report notes these options are ‘inconsistent’ and the blocking of EU decisions should not be allowed.

Currently, vehicles longer than 18.75 metres or weighing more than 44 tonnes are prohibited on UK roads, and ministers have been quick to rule out larger loads.

If implemented, the plans would allow for lorries with lengths up to 25.25 metres.

Industry associations argue that bigger vehicles with heavier loads on board would reduce the number of LGVs on congested motorways and reduce CO2 emissions.

Jack Semple, of the Road Haulage Association, said that “longer and heavier vehicles are more sensible” and that “safety-conscious Swedes have been using 60 tonners for five decades.”

However the plans face strong opposition from environmental and transport groups.

Stephen Joseph, of the Campaign for Better Transport, said: “The EU is set to steamroller bigger and heavier lorries into Britain, whatever UK ministers might say. They simply won’t have the power to stop them. Much of the continent already has 60-tonners with some countries pressing for 90 tonners.”

“The government is caving in to European pressure for new big juggernaut lorries. The EU is forcing heavier lorries on our roads,” he added.