New towing regulation helps UK machine users

(Photo: JCB)

The decision impacts towing rules in England, Scotland, and Wales and has led the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) to establish a new Vehicle Special Order (VSO).

With the new regulation, machine users will be allowed to use wheeled engineering machinery, such as backhoe loaders and wheeled excavators, to tow a trailer on the highway for construction, maintenance, and repair of roads.

Richard Brooks, Group Product Innovation Director at JCB, said, “Recognition by the VCA of the benefits of safely towing a trailer behind these types of wheeled machines will be welcomed by contractors and equipment owners.

“We have been pushing for this change in legislation, as it will greatly increase the versatility and productivity of this type of wheeled machine. By towing a trailer to and from site, customers will reduce the need for additional vehicles to carry materials and tools, cutting emissions and unnecessary traffic, while increasing efficiency in road construction maintenance and repair.”

JCB said it demonstrated to the Department for Transport (DfT) and VCA that their machinery can effectively and efficiently facilitate the repair of potholes. As a result, a temporary exception has been granted to The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) General Order 2003.

This change applies to backhoe loaders as well as wheeled excavators. These machines will be permitted to tow unladen trailers or trailers carrying materials or tools to and from road construction, repair, or maintenance sites. This flexibility will enhance productivity for customers and reduce the need for additional transportation.

Under the new regulations, the machines can tow on all types of roads except motorways, at speeds of up to 20mph. However, the wheeled engineering plant must be road-registered and comply with all relevant aspects of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. The combined length of the machine and trailer cannot exceed 8m, and the trailer must bear the same number plate as the towing machine.

To take advantage of this change in the law, operators can submit a written application to the VCA, stating their intention to use a machine or multiple machines for towing on the road. Applications should be sent to [email protected] and must include the name of the individual or organization making the application.