Reading westbound services on the M4 have been named England’s best motorway services in a survey by an independent transport user watchdog.
All 112 motorway services in England were checked and 8,700 customers had their say on facilities such as toilets, staffing, cleanliness and food and drink.
Our motorway services are a good experience for drivers
Anthony Smith, chief executive of Transport Focus, which organised the survey, said:
“Our research shows that up and down the country motorway services are providing customers with a good experience and are playing a positive role in helping them rest and recharge before continuing to drive. They tell us they feel less stressed and are more awake after a good break.
“Motorway service operators must not rest on their laurels however; our message is clear – use the results to deliver even higher levels of customer satisfaction in future.
“Ensuring that visitors feel their experience is worth the money paid, that the choice of food is good and the services are welcoming and well-maintained are important areas for motorway service operators to watch.”
Minister says motorway services should be “lovely places”
Transport Minister John Hayes said: “Motorways services can and should be lovely places for drivers to enjoy not just places they have to stop.
“Congratulations to those scoring the most highly. They show what can be done when what motorists want and deserve drives what is on offer.
“But users’ needs and expectations are constantly evolving. Now I want to go much further to raise and meet those expectations. My new taskforce will bring together industry and independent experts to look at how services can be fit for future motorists and reflect the particularity of localities which host these important facilities.
“Thoughtful design and a range of goods and services can make all motorway services as good as the best.”
The survey found 90% of customers were satisfied with their visit. A similar number were impressed with the cleanliness of the toilets, 64% thought the food and drink was value for money and 94% rated the friendliness of staff as “good”.
Picture source: https://stock.adobe.com/uk/
The best five motorway services:
- Reading Services Westbound M4
- Rivington Services Northbound M61
- Corley Services Northbound M6
- Gloucester Services Southbound M5
- Gloucester Services Northbound M5
The worst five motorway services:
- Toddington Services Southbound M1
- Rownhams Services Northbound M27
- Rownhams Services Southbound M27
- Stafford Services Southbound M6
- Heston Services Eastbound M4
You can see the full Transport Focus report here.
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