Denby transport pioneering LHV's
When Denby Transport decided to take the eco-link trailer on the road for a half-hour run, it was stopped and prohibited from leaving the premises.
Denby Transport was not allowed to have on of these experimental longer heavier vehicles (LHV) released on the road for a trial run. They had no permit and were therefore stopped by police and VOSA staff, who insisted on a series of tests to establish the safety and validity of the vehicles on the road.
Unfortunately, the Department of Transport (DFT) refused these tests and trials because of environmental and safety issues.
Nonetheless, Denby Transport believes that the "towing implement" referred to in the regulations can be seen as allowing an extra trailer. The DFT however, believes it is for transporting damaged vehicles only.
Even though the trials have been stopped, Managing Director, Peter Denby says that all he is asking for is some clarity on this subject and that way taking a positive step.
According to him these longer heavier vehicles (LHV) are legal. However, the Government has made it very clear that these vehicles will not be allowed on the roads anytime soon.
The ongoing debate regarding this issue has attracted a lot of interested. RHA police director, Jack Semple, states that they agree and stand by Denby Transport with regards to wanting clarity where the law is concerned.
Another person keeping a close eye is James Hookman, managing director of FTA. He stated that the law in the UK is very vague with regards to LHV’s.
Philippa Edmunds from Freight on Rail however feels that this against public opinion and that Denby Transport are breaking the spirit and even these laws themselves.
Meanwhile, the debate carries on in Europe and there is no way that the UK can overlook this issue.
