RHA launches supplying our cities London logistics report

The RHA is calling on the Mayor of London to appoint a Mayoral Logistics Commissioner to support transport businesses operating in the capital. The Association says that the role would strengthen links between the commercial vehicle sector, London’s businesses and local authorities. 

The proposal forms a key part of the a report the RHA publishes today (Tuesday 4 March) Their ‘Supplying Our Cities: The London Logistics Report’ sets out a vision to give operators a stronger voice in policymaking, ensure the needs of lorries and coaches are included in local policies, and to review suitability of existing regulations. 

The report follows a recent RHA survey revealing that 95% of hauliers said they did not enjoy working in or feel valued working in London.

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director said:

“The commercial vehicle sector is a critical economic enabler so we need to ensure operators are fully supported to move people and goods into the capital as smoothly as possible.

“Transport businesses and drivers overwhelmingly tell us that they don’t feel welcome operating in London so we need to change that equation. Improved collaboration between decisionmakers and our sector can help the Mayor successfully deliver his London Growth Plan priorities on housing and infrastructure.”


You can read the  RHA’s ‘Supplying Our Cities: The London Logistics Report’ in full HERE  


Key recommendations featuring in the report:

 Representation: give operators a voice in policy making

• Appoint a ‘Logistics Commissioner’ - supported by a Commercial Vehicle Operator Advisory Council combining public and private sector voices.
  
• Ensure city working groups on relevant subjects e.g. roads, tourism etc. include participants from the commercial vehicle sector.

Operations: help us to do the jobs you need us to do

• Local Transport Plans to include specific Freight and Coach policies, and consider what provision is required in Local Plans to allow the safe operation of these vehicles.
  
• A review of urban freight corridors to identify options to reduce journey times, travel distances and idle running time.
  
• Ensure the delivery of accessible parking spaces, loading bays and signage designed to aid the safe and efficient use of commercial vehicles.

Regulations: let’s make sure they do what we want them to do

• Conduct a thorough review of current London existing regulations, to ensure a fitness of purpose and applicability with advancing technology.