UK transport planning bosses may benefit from fairer competition and improved road safety as a result of the new European Union (EU) road transport package, according to one industry group.
The Council of Ministers this week agreed to adopt the new rules, which aim to tighten up road operator licensing across Europe.
In particular, the legislation will focus on vehicles that are operating in one country but registered in another, with tougher regulations now set to come into force next spring.
The decision was welcomed by the Freight Transport Association (FTA), which has worked hard with the UK government to help bring about a standard set of industry rules.
Road freight, enforcement and EU affairs manager at the organisation Chris Yarsley said the move was good news for UK hauliers, the majority of which operate within the law.
"With today's announcement we are one step closer to levelling the playing field across Europe and to removing those rogue operators that jeopardise the safety of other road users," he commented.
The news comes after the FTA recently welcomed a new report designed to improve road safety for freight operators in Wales, which recommended measures such as off-peak deliveries and dedicated truck parking areas.
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