Roads Minister, Guy Opperman was joined by Hartlepool’s MP Jill Mortimer on Monday 9 April for a tour of Hartlepool firm, Ron Perry & Son, to hear about their government supported plans to combat a lack of secure overnight Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) parking.
Last month, Ron Perry & Son secured a grant from the Conservative Government, under the HGV parking and driver welfare scheme, to make multiple improvements to HGV parking on the A19 Northbound and Southbound.
The parking and driver welfare scheme aims to address the critical shortage of secure overnight parking spaces for HGVs across England.
After giving the Minister and Jill Mortimer MP a tour of the existing 12 unsecured spaces for HGV’s, Managing Director, Ron Perry and Director of Operations, Dan Perry explained how the grant would be used to create a new secure overnight parking space for 68 vehicles.
The proposed plans include state-of-the-art security measures, such as barrier-controlled entry, live-monitored CCTV cameras, and routine site inspections.
They will also future proof the facilities, with EV charging points.
Within the grant, they have promised that all works will be completed by the end of the next financial year (2024 to 2025).
This will mean the facility will be open to HGV drivers travelling Northbound and Southbound on the A19 by Spring of 2025.
Speaking after the visit, Jill Mortimer MP said:
“The Conservatives are on the side of drivers, with a record £1 billion funding being reallocated from HS2 to our roads across Teesside, and now consideration for those who are making the longest journeys.
“I’m pleased that Ron Perry & Son have considered drivers welfare within their plans, as HGV drivers are key workers who keep the country running smoothly.
“Alongside the security measures, Ron has shared plans which will improve driver’s wellbeing, with upgrades to toilets, shower facilities and rest areas.
“As our areas potential is being recognised, with increasing investment and relocation from national and international companies, measures like these ensure our connectivity is future proofed and keep our drivers safe.”