A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by the chief executives of the Freight Transport Association (FTA) and the Highways Agency to establish a platform for effective co-operation and understanding between the parties.

The MoU puts an emphasis on both parties working more closely together to promote and develop relevant transport initiatives, for example by developing clearer travel warnings in instances of severe weather such as snow and ice warnings for HGVs.

Theo de Pencier, CEO of FTA, said: "Both organisations share mutual aims in terms of better serving road freight operators, whether that is about access to up-to-date information or, in the longer term, secure lorry parking provision. With closer collaboration and a sharing of intelligence we look forward to effecting real change for the better."

Graham Dalton, chief executive of the Highways Agency, said: "We are delighted to renew and formalise our strong working relationship with the Freight Transport Association, reflecting our aim to work more closely together to help all road users experience safer and more reliable journeys.

"We'll be working with FTA to keep freight operators informed, both on immediate issues on the network and on longer-term developments and improvements, and to investigate ways to improve the way we operate for the benefit of the transport sector and wider UK economy."