Irawbor ban?
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TES are afoot to restrict the use of rbar trailer vehicles in London, and ter London Council will consider a rt on the subject within the next few )unCil officers have prepared a report • hich they recommend a drawbar ?.r ban as part of the GLC policy of controls, but a final decision on the is probably some time away.
is thought that GLC fears a rapid vth in the number of drawbar les after an increase in maximum s vehicle weights, and that 18m outould take up too much roadspace.
it both the Road Haulage Association the Freight Transport Association that the case against them is overd.
te RHA fears that a ban or partial ban ie use of drawbars could be counteructive. They have proved useful for break-bulk distribution, as they can be split up for final urban deliveries.
"It seems inconsistent that GLC should be arguing in favour of break-bulk distribution centres, and that it should be considering regulations which would restrict this through the use of drawbar vehicles," said a spokesman.
And FTA planning and traffic services controller Richard Turner told CM: "The reaction to drawbar vehicles is based on emotion rather than practical experience.
"It is more manoeuvrable than an articulated lorry. It bends in the middle, and its turning performance is similar to that of a bus or coach."
He added that he would be surprised if GLC opts for a blanket ban on drawbar vehicles in London. Instead, he expects the council will warn industry that it should control the use of the vehicles, lest official restrictions are needed.