13 Acknowledged

The Government owns the freehold of a number of motorway service areas.

Recommendation
The Government owns the freehold of a number of motorway service areas. Delays in negotiating leasehold extensions with operators are holding up necessary investments in some of these facilities. While the Government must, of course, ensure it receives value for money, it is disappointing how little urgency it has shown.
Government Response Summary
The government is assessing future ownership options for motorway service areas (MSA) freeholds and investing £52.5 million in roadside facility improvements, but makes no firm commitments regarding leasehold negotiations.
Paragraph Reference
45
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government Acknowledged
The Government notes this recommendation and can confirm that the DfT and National Highways are currently assessing future ownership options for sites where the Government holds the motorway service areas (MSA) freehold. This work is looking at how to maximise value for the taxpayer and ensure that privately operated MSAs will be responsive to the needs of future road users. In the meantime, the Government is investing £52.5 million in improvements in roadside facilities and lorry parking, including at MSAs.
Addressee Bodies
Department for Transport
Timeline
Recommendation age 4.0 yrs
Report published 01 Jun 2022