Following consultation on proposals to allow a two-metre increase in the length of articulated lorries, the Department for Transport (DfT) is allowing a ten-year trial of up to 900 trailers at an increased length of 2.05 metres, and 900 at an increase of one metre.

The longer lorries will operate within the existing weight limit of 44 tonnes but will offer 13% more loading space.  If allowed, they could be very useful for those long-haul, multi-drop European moves.

Roads Minister Mike Penning said: "By allowing companies to use one truck where they may have previously needed to send two, we can help the sector improve efficiency and save money – which should in turn benefit consumers.  Independent research showed the potential environmental, safety and congestion benefits of longer trailers and this voluntary trial will give industry the opportunity to demonstrate how this works in practice. The trial will be subject to rigorous annual assessments and will be closely and independently monitored throughout so that any concerns are addressed quickly.”

The changes would make the total permitted length for articulated lorries 18.55 metres; the current maximum length for lorries using a truck and drawbar trailer is 18.75 metres. The Government has ruled out any further increase in length.

The response to the consultation can be found at: www.dft.gov.uk/publications