Plans for fuel tankers to operate at full capacity during disruptions to the fuel supply chain are now out for consultation.

Allowing fuel tankers to operate at full capacity could increase the efficiency of the fuel supply chain by approximately 6%

The Department for Transport said increasing the weight limit would ensure constant fuel supply at forecourts without adding larger tankers on roads, helping to circumvent issues such as the fuel crisis seen in September 2021.

Most fuel tankers operate with spare tank capacity due to the existing 44-tonne weight limit.

Allowing them to operate to the full design train weight could increase the efficiency of the fuel supply chain by approximately 6% and help to keep forecourts stocked, the DfT said.

Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “Thanks to the Government’s bold measures to support the sector, our country has now an even stronger haulage supply chain.

“We will continue to work with and listen to the sector to ensure our forecourts are always well stocked and motorists can fill up with confidence.”

The DfT stressed that the consultation centres around safety, and any increase in fuel capacity would apply only to fuel tankers equipped with appropriate safety features, such as vehicle stability functionality and advanced emergency braking systems.

These heavier tankers would also only be able to operate on routes agreed in advance, ensuring the road infrastructure can accommodate them.

National Highways analysis indicates that the increase in safety risks would be extremely small and any risk of infrastructure damage would be effectively managed.

The proposals would support existing action to tackle the HGV driver shortage, including making 11,000 HGV driver training places available through Skills Bootcamps and investing in the number of HGV driver tests available and improving roadside facilities and lorry parking.

The consultation is open until 11:45pm on 17 May 2023. To have your say, click here.