I have today launched a public consultation on roadside facilities on England’s strategic road network. The consultation will run for 12 weeks and comprises a call for evidence on a number of issues for consideration, with a view to improving services for road users. In particular the document seeks views on:

The location of motorway service areas (MSAs)—determining the need for such sites and the spacing interval between them;

facilities at MSAs—the type of facilities, how they are signed and their standards;

service areas on trunk roads;

motorway picnic areas;

lorry parking; and

the provision and use of laybys.

Following the public consultation, new draft guidance will be issued for consideration before the final new policy is published.

Copies of the consultation document have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.