Freight operators have welcomed what they see as a move towards accommodating proactively lorries in London, with the publication of a draft freight strategy.
More night-time deliveries, no car lanes, and consolidation centres are part of the strategy, which transport commissioner, Peter Hendy, hopes would allow the freight industry to shake off its ‘necessary evil’ image.
The London lorry ban, introduced by ~Ken Livingstone~ as leader of the GLC in the teeth of business opposition, is under threat by the proposal to ‘provide guidance to maximise night-time deliveries’, where this does not affect residential amenity. The boroughs have stressed that any changes to the lorry ban will need their agreement. TfL proposes developing guidance on the introduction of no-car lanes, similar to Newcastle upon Tyne’s. They would only be allowed where ‘there is a strategic need and where vulnerable road-users can be protected’. A business case will be developed and sites identified for construction material consolidation centres, and the potential for extending the idea to waste collection, hotels and courier deliveries, will be considered.
Gordon Telling, FTA’s head of policy for London and the Southeast, said: ‘The draft fits well with our drive to move away from banning freight towards a more proactive and engaging planning for freight. ‘We recognise this is a first step of a longer journey and welcome the opportunity to refine the proposals.’ : www.tfl.gov.uk/freight
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