Poor service stations undermine "Take a Break" campaign

The Department of Transport campaign urging drivers to “Take a Break” is being undermined by the poor quality of motorway service stations, according to a leading road safety group. GEM Motoring Assist says “garish shops” and “disaffected staff” discourage people from stopping on long journeys.

GEM, formerly known as the Guild of Experienced Motorists, is urging the Government to reduce the franchise cost of operating service stations so that they can improve their offering and ensure people drivers take notice of the “Tiredness Kills” message.

GEM chief executive David Williams says: “There is no question that a tired driver overcome by the numbing boredom of many of our motorways is a danger on the road. The trouble is people will press on with the journey long after they need a rest from the monotony because the service stations are so unattractive and unappealing.”

Williams thinks that service stations should feature comfortable lounges and a quiet and peaceful atmosphere to help refresh tired drivers.