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LONGER SEMI-TRAILERS: WHAT HAPPENS NOW?
Page 45
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By the time you read this, the 30 October deadline to have your say on the DfT's LST study will (for the time-being, at least) have passed. The report from consultants WSP, MDS Transmodal, TRL, and Cambridge University, is due to be submitted to the Off by the end of the year. The department says: "If the evidence shows significant CO2 benefits (taking into account other impacts, including those from modal shift) and acceptable safety applications, we will consult on proposed changes to regulations on vehicle length in 2010."
CM understands that the 'changes' could involve a straightforward amendment to C+U rules without needing a vote from MPs. But since LSTs would be subject to a statutory consultation, a Parliamentary debate can't be ruled out, and doubtless the views of the European Commission and member states would be sought, too.
Meanwhile, if the current study is favourably received by the DfT (i.e. LSTs don't frighten the rail lobby or raise issues with traffic compatibility) then consultation could, in theory, take place late next year.
Although again it will depend on the views held by ministers at the time and that will be after a General Election, There's still a long way to go...