Rallying MPs, peers and industry stakeholders, the UK’s Heavy Transport Association (HTA) has reaffirmed the need for law changes regarding police escorting of abnormal loads and mobile cranes.
HLPFI reported in June 2025 that the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) in the UK had released updated guidance on the policing of abnormal loads, with former HTA chairman Marcus Gough describing it as “possibly the most vital document produced in over 15 years in our community.”
The HTA argues that inconsistent police practices across regions are causing undue delays, excessive fees and economic harm, while threatening the timely execution of national projects in sectors such as renewable energy and defence.
The reforms, Amendments 402-414, set out to remove long-standing inconsistencies in police escort charging and authorisation for abnormal loads and mobile cranes, in turn guaranteeing fairer, more transparent regulations that protect key infrastructure delivery and economic growth. The Crime and Policing Bill is currently progressing through the House of Lords, with the HTA calling on MPs, peers and industry stakeholders to get behind the amendments as committee debates take place throughout this month and next.
“The current inconsistencies and unsustainable fees within the heavy transport sector are causing significant operational disruptions and financial strain,” explained Chris Britton, who stepped up as HTA chair last month. “Wind turbine deliveries being delayed by unexpected costs, mobile crane movements facing holdups that impact vital road infrastructure and HS2 project timelines. Furthermore, critical defence shipments are suffering disruptions due to inconsistent regional applications of rules.”
He went on: “This status quo is unsustainable. Parliament has a timely opportunity to introduce equitable, cohesive reform that provides stability for the industry and bolsters UK infrastructure and employment opportunities.”
The HTA has backing for the reforms from the likes of the Abnormal Loads Group (ALG), Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) and Road Haulage Association (RHA). The HTA is encouraging its members to contact their local MPs and peers with real-world examples of delays or overcharges, using its template letter.
