Lorries parked on Swindon estate spark call for traffic wardens

Councillor Mike Davies posted on Facebook on Thursday, September 3, after spotting a line of HGVs parked on Dorcan Estate, Swindon while out on a walk.

Cllr Davies said in the post: "Out and about last night checking out a few bits of casework that can only be done at night! Lorries using Dorcan estate as a lorry park, so have requested traffic wardens to visit, plus abandoned vehicles and street light problems.

"Good to see Overbrook work seems to have been completed successfully too. If anyone has any issues that need raising, do let us know."

The post quickly drew a mixed response, with some comments arguing that overnight parking by lorries is becoming an increasing problem.

Dave Brown said: "The parked up HGV’s appear to be causing grief, not only here but in various areas within NELPC boundaries, and beyond, and certainly needs addressing with both the Road Haulage Association and local logistic companies."

Sue Smith also added: "Vicarage Rd is being used as a lorry Park too, where it's illegal to park."

There have also been issues with HGVs and unhitched trailers being left for long periods of time around Wanborough Road, Greenbridge, and Merlin Way.

An issue which Cllr Marco di Pinto, who represents Lower Stratton on Swindon Borough Council, began urging the Traffic Commissioner to investigate in August 2026.

He has called for checks to establish which haulage operators are responsible for the parked lorries, whether they hold the necessary licences, and whether any regulatory action is required.

Read more: Fury at Amazon allegedly using Swindon streets as dumping ground

However, many commenters defended the drivers, arguing that there is a shortage of safe and suitable overnight parking facilities for HGVs.

Robert Evans, said: "Why is everyone against lorry drivers we need your help and support we desperately need safe parking at night, places where we can park and sleep peacefully knowing that our lorries will not be broken into and our fuel will not be stolen and we wont personally be at risk of attack.

"It just seems that everyone hates lorries and is against us, local authorities across the UK do not provide enough safe parking with toilets and showers, we don't wish to disturb or upset anyone or be anti-social, we're working 12 to 15 hours a day every day we desperately need our rest breaks.

"Please can you help us to find suitable parking which pleases everyone without any complaints from anyone being made, we need to work together to find suitable Solutions, I can honestly see why more drivers are leaving the haulage industry than are joining it. Please where you can help and support us by suggesting and providing safe and appropriate parking places at night."

Others shared similar concerns, saying that finding a long-term solution for drivers should be prioritised over enforcement action.

Allyson Thomson said: "Maybe it would be prudent to create somewhere for the truckers to park up at night instead of punishing them. If they are on a tacho break they can’t move, even if a traffic warden asks them too!"

Martyn Beck added: "Let’s remember everything in your life comes into contact with a lorry at some point. We as stated need safe places to park with facilities and to be able to access them at all times. They don’t serve food at 1 am and yes that’s when some drivers get finished!

"Without trucks you get nothing no fuel no food no next day deliveries from Amazon no medical supplies nothing! Happy to work with local authorities to help push Swindon forward."

Cllr Davies said: "Dorcan Industrial Estate seems to be being used as a lorry park by various companies, and we have had reports of anti-social behaviour by some drivers. It is of course not all drivers, but companies do have responsibility for their employees' health and well-being and should provide appropriate places to take breaks.

"I have raised the issue with Swindon Borough Council and will pursue an appropriate resolution to the situation."