Larger loads could boost farming production

Regulations could be cut to help farmers transport goods more efficiently and boost agricultural output, Roads Minister, Robert Goodwill, has announced.

A consultation launched today seeks views on increasing the weight limit for agricultural vehicles, with a separate consultation also seeking views on allowing conventional tractors to travel faster.

The current highest speed allowed for most conventional tractors is 20mph but under the proposals this could be increased to 25mph.

At the same time, the weight limit for agricultural trailers and combinations could increase to 21 tonnes for agricultural trailers, and 31 tonnes for combinations.

The proposals would also mean that agricultural vehicle operators have to take an annual vehicle test to drive with increased weights.

The consultations will run until 30 January 2014.