HGV drivers face ban from using car satnavs

LORRY drivers should be banned from using satellite navigation systems designed for cars, it has been claimed.

The plea was made following a spate of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) causing chaos on routes where they exceeded the weight or height limit.

Lorry sat-navs are slightly more expensive than regular devices, and include information on bridge heights and narrow roads.

They also allow drivers to enter the dimensions of their vehicle to ensure they are instructed to follow suitable routes.

The Local Government Association (LGA), representing more than 370 councils in England and Wales, wants legislation brought in to make it compulsory for all lorry drivers who use sat-navs to use commercial devices.

Lorries of a certain weight or width are banned from many minor roads, but police forces often do not have the resources to enforce the restrictions.

Local authorities in Wales and London have the power to take action if lorry drivers break the law, but councils are urging the Government to roll this out across the whole of England.

The LGA said the money raised from fines could be put towards tackling the backlog in fixing potholes, which could reach an estimated £14bn over the next two years.

It added that a number of councils are already working with freight and haulage firms to ensure lorries use the most suitable routes.