A new draft European Union proposal could see overseas ‘superlorries’, some up to 60 tonnes, traversing the country.

The superlorries or road trains are around 30% heavier and longer than what is currently allowed on British roads and have a history of condemnation from motoring groups who claim they endanger other drivers. However, the latest discussions in Brussels look set to overrule objections from the UK as they look to implement laws allowing free travel for superlorries across all EU member states.

Advocates of the giant rigs claim that congestion is reduced due to the sheer size of the vehicle which limits the amount of journeys required. They also claim that by attaching what is effectively a giant trailer to the truck there is also a reduction in emissions. The hauliers have further suggested that larger lorries actually mimise the damage to roads as their weight is more evenly distributed over the increased number of axels. Many bridges in the UK may require strengthening if the proposal is accepted.

The UK government has trialled superlorries in the past but discontinued the plans last year following fears of serious injuries and greatly slowed traffic.

The Department of Transport has been quick to state that the UK government, along with other EU nations, would only accept a new proposal if it had the power to block certain vehicles.

Opponents of the trucks claim they have a disastrous effect on road safety and the environment, pointing to figures which show the rate of fatal accidents is tripled when a large lorry is involved. There are also fears that supperlorries will not be able to negotiate Britain’s numerous roundabouts.

The Brussels talks include the increasing of maximum size for superlorries to over 80 feet and up to 60 tonnes. Currently the limit is at 44 tonnes.