Drivers have been advised by National Highways to plan their journeys ahead in the New Year. The advice comes as traffic levels return to normal after the Christmas season.
Members of the PCS union at National Highways are planning a national strike on Tuesday, January 3 and Wednesday, January 4 which are the first working days after the holiday season in England. National Highways has put in place well-rehearsed resilience plans to ensure that the 4,500-mile strategic road network remains open and safe at all times.
National Highways is confident that the forthcoming industrial action will have minimal overall impact. With that being said, roads are likely to be busy on both days and drivers are being asked to plan ahead, particularly with national rail strikes being staged at the same time.
It is advising people to check the National Highways traffic website for road conditions and any congestion before embarking on a journey.
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Motorists should also ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy, with the correct amount of fuel for their journey.
Duncan Smith, Executive Director of Operations at National Highways, said: “A small minority of front-line operational staff are involved in the PCS strikes, which have had minimal overall impact so far.
“We have well-rehearsed resilience plans in place to continue managing and operating our network safely, including when wider action takes place in the New Year.
“Millions of people rely on our roads and there is a possibility that they may be busier than usual on strike days, particularly as they fall on the first working days after the festive break when industrial action is also being staged on other transport modes.
“We’d urge drivers to plan ahead and check their vehicle is in good working condition.”
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