Satnav summit maps out plans to help drivers

Norman Baker, transport minister, has held talks with highway authorities, map providers and satnav manufacturers to find solutions to update out-of-date directions and prevent lorries being sent down country lanes and through villages (Sky News).

The electronic mapping devices have been blamed for a spate of incidents where large vehicles have been instructed to use a flawed route.

Speaking to Sky News, Norman Baker said: “ It should be possible to solve a particular challenge for foreign lorry-drivers who don’t know the route, so I’ve authorised new signs for roads that are non-accessible for lorries.

“That’s one of the reasons why the satnav summit is important, because we’re giving local authorities more control of their own roads.

“From next month we are allowing local authorities to reclassify roads – ensuring A roads are placed where they want traffic to run and lowering the category of road in places they want traffic to avoid – rather than having to come to Whitehall for approval.

“These powers will help councils make sure that drivers are using suitable routes.”

Click here to read the full Sky News report.