Drivers should benefit from higher standards at service stations in a move which the Government hopes will increase safety.

Its new policy for the operation and provision of service areas on motorways and major A roads, the Highways Agency sets out a range of facilities it expects operators to provide, from parking to toilets.

It will also introduce an independent quality scheme to grade services.

As well as providing higher quality facilities, the agency hopes it will increase road safety by encouraging drivers to take more frequent breaks.

Roads minister Tom Harris said: “We are committed to providing and encouraging better services for road users.

“By improving facilities providing more choice, we want to encourage drivers to take breaks more frequently and cut the number of incidents caused by tiredness," he said.