CWA requests the UK Government provide an exemption allowing automated car washes to remain open

Writing to the UK Government (02/11/2020), Brian Madderson, Chairman of the Car Wash Association (CWA) and Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), said “It is deeply concerning that the Government guidance regarding the impending lockdown is proposing a blanket closure order for all car washes. We strongly refute the idea that they are not an essential service. Car washes are important for vehicle repair and maintenance.

“They ensure vehicles are safer to operate as visibility is fully maintained through clear windows, while also making sure that make and model identifiers, in addition to number plates, can be recognised for crime enforcement such as speeding offences and RTA’s. Furthermore, clean lighting system on vehicles allows them continues to function correctly and be seen on the road network; a fact that is vitally important to road safety, particularly in large parts of the country that rely on the rural road network with limited lighting”

The PRA and CWA represent the 5,350 independent forecourt operators and specialist car wash companies across the UK. This covers 65% of the total fuel outlets (PFS). Many of these sites have Automated Car Washes (ACW) Multiples and compliant Hand Car Washes (HCW). The PRA does not represent the standalone Hand Car Washes.

Brian Madderson added, “The CWA is fully supportive of sensible measures that safeguard our members, and their customers, however, as the risk of transmission can be effectively managed at these sites, we request that ‘Covid secure’ car washes, and in particular automated washes, are granted an exemption.”