Industry calls for improved infrastructure
Page 3
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Both the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and Freight Transport Association (FTA) questioned just how suitable London's road infrastructure really is for cyclists. A spokesman for the RHA said: "We need to separate the cyclist as much as possible. The majority of LGV drivers in London do a very good job in difficult circumstances."
Christopher Snelling, head of urban logistics policy at the FTA, said: "The logistics industry has spent a lot of money [on the problem] and will need to carry on doing that. Last week demonstrated that the quality of cycling infrastructure is just as important."
Mike Bracey, chairman of the Brewery Logistics Group, urged caution regarding full segregation.
"Approximately 90% of freight comes in by road in London. If you segregate everything you will stop deliveries [as the lanes are typically at the roadside]. The city will grind to a halt."
Bracey said that if the London Lorry Control Scheme ran until 4am rather than its 7am cut-off, operators would be able to make deliveries ahead of the rush hour.