In the UK, 89% of freight is moved by road, but driver rest facilities have historically failed to keep up with modern technology. This has contributed to rising incidents of lorry theft, prompting industry bodies to call for stronger security infrastructure at British truck stops.
It’s estimated that the value of goods stolen from lorry cargo has surpassed £115 million, representing the risk faced by drivers every day, and the need for investment and consideration from decision makers.
Image: Certas Energy
Thanks to an award from the Government’s Match Fund scheme, Certas Energy has invested more than £800,000 at the UK’s oldest truck stop, TheStop at The Hollies, which we have invested into overhauling its security measures.
Innovative security updates
The site has introduced over 80 new CCTV cameras, as well as infrared surveillance, ANPR number plate recognition technology, LED flood-lighting, and high-security parking bays.
The site’s security team is now also equipped with body-worn cameras, providing a clear and transparent record of interactions on-site. This not only enhances safety and accountability, but also helps to deter inappropriate behaviour and protect both staff and customers. By capturing events as they happen, these cameras contribute to a more secure and positive environment for all hauliers.
In recognition of the site’s dedication to protecting drivers, their vehicles, and cargo, it has achieved Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) accreditation, the highest European standard, and was awarded the ParkMark Freight Award for three consecutive years.
Assessed by the British Parking Association (BPA) and the Police, the process evaluates staff training and provides recommendations which led to the introduction of a defibrillator unit and a blood pressure testing machine, further supporting the health and wellbeing of drivers.
Improving the experience for female drivers
Over the past decade, the number of people obtaining a Category C or C+E (HGV) license has grown significantly. Yet the haulage industry remains largely male-dominated, with women still representing just 1% of all UK HGV drivers. For these women, inadequate facilities – lacking safe and secure spaces to rest – can make daily life on the road challenging and impact their overall experience.
Image: Certas Energy
To support the growing number of women entering the industry, truck stop infrastructure must evolve to meet their needs, providing safe, comfortable spaces for rest and personal care.
As part of the upgraded security and facilities at TheStop at The Hollies, female-only changing and shower facilities have been introduced, an offering that is unfortunately uncommon.
This initiative aims to set a precedent for other UK truck stops. Secure, private amenities for female drivers should be considered a baseline requirement, not a luxury. To make this the norm nationwide, industry stakeholders must recognise the shift and begin preparing for the future.
Certas Energy is continuing to work alongside government bodies, industry partners, and driver associations to share insights from The Hollies, helping raise the standard for every driver, wherever they choose to rest.
A call for industry-wide improvements
All of the security advancements made came following insight from loyal truckers, who have been using truck stops for decades. It’s important to understand the first-hand experiences of those using a truck stop, to ensure that the changes would enhance their experience in a meaningful way.
By combining advice outlined by security standards certifications with real-world driver-led feedback, we’re hoping to set a new normal for security measures that can be replicated at truck stops across the UK.
Increased investment in the future of British truck stops will allow for safer parking, cleaner rest areas, improved food and shower facilities, and more reliable services, making life on the road more secure for the drivers who keep the country moving.
This investment wasn’t about upgrading just one location; we hope this is the first step in an industry-wide shift to taking security measures more seriously at truck stops.
Author: Mike Heaton, Head of Estate Development at Certas Energy
