Welcome Break Unveils Major Upgrades for HGV Drivers For National Lorry Week

To launch National Lorry Week (4th to 8th November), Welcome Break, one of the UK's leading motorway service providers, has announced a series of significant upgrades to enhance the well-being and safety of HGV drivers. This initiative is part of Welcome Break's ongoing commitment to support over 440,000 HGV drivers parking overnight annually and more than 6 million HGV drivers visiting Welcome Break sites annually. In a major collaboration with National Highways, Welcome Break has invested GBP1.7 million, matched by an equal contribution from National Highways, to modernise facilities across its HGV parks.

These upgrades include the construction of modern shower blocks, the installation of robust 3m high palisade security perimeter fencing, enhanced lighting with LED floodlights, and the deployment of advanced PTZ and Infrared Bi-Optic CCTV systems that are remotely monitored to ensure driver safety. Continuing their commitment to driver wellness, Welcome Break is set to introduce outdoor gyms at five of its sites in Q1 of 2025. This initiative, funded by National Highways, aims to provide HGV drivers with the opportunity to stay physically active during their rest periods, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

The partnership between Welcome Break and National Highways originated from the Government's Designated Funds Project, announced in 2022. The project allocated a GBP20 million matched funding pot to improve infrastructure and support the HGV sector. Nick Jackson, Head of Commercial Income at Welcome Break, commented: "We are incredibly grateful for the funding from National Highways, which has enabled us to make significant improvements to our HGV driver facilities across our locations.

This investment has allowed us to upgrade key amenities, including modern shower blocks, enhanced security with fencing and CCTV, improved lighting, and even the introduction of outdoor gyms.   These improvements have not only created a safer and more comfortable environment for our drivers but also contributed to their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

The process of working with National Highways has been a tremendous opportunity for us to further support our drivers, and we are already seeing the positive impact on their daily experience."