Congestion is biggest problem for freight companies in London

Ninety-six per cent of transport operators questioned by the Freight Transport Association (FTA) say delivering in London is harder than five years ago. Congestion, restricted delivery times and an excessive number of compliance schemes among the reasons.

A survey by the FTA in partnership with Road Transport Media (RTM) asked operators about their experiences in the city, including penalty charges, vulnerable road users and the London Lorry Control Scheme. The majority of respondents named increased traffic as the biggest problem.

The FTA’s head of policy for London, Natalie Chapman, said: “Delivering in an ever-growing city is a huge challenge but HGVs remain the most effective way of getting goods in and out, so it’s vital to ensure this is done safely, cost-effectively and with consideration for the environment.

“The FTA believes there are many improvements that can be made without compromising the efficiency of transport operations, such as reforming night-time delivery restrictions, avoiding lorry bans and increasing enforcement of existing HGV legislation.”