MHW Magazine News and stories from the Materials Handling Industry
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport CILT welcomes the ambitious approach of the Draft Mayor’s Transport Strategy (DMTS) and wholeheartedly agrees with its high level principles. These commendable intentions risk being undermined unless a number of the DMTS policies are reinforced with greater rigour and resolve.
CILT believes that the DMTS should better promote policies to drive modal shift, including a focus on rapid bus links and innovative local distribution. This should be underpinned by a full commitment to crucial infrastructure projects such as Crossrail 2.
The ambitious targets for reducing car use can only be achieved with road-user charging as part of the policy mix. The Mayor could now commit to leading a London-wide system with time and distance based charges, to encourage a cleaner, and more competitive Capital.
Significant engagement is required with freight operators if we are to ensure the efficient supply chains that civilised, high density city life demands. All policies must be made mutually supportive to ensure that the intended modal shift can match the needs of London’s logistics and transport networks. Particularly, the emphasis of the DMTS should shift to improving the efficiency of the supply chain rather than regulating vehicle access, type and timings. Crucially, the Strategy should recognise that freight vehicles are rarely interchangeable between functions or sectors served.
Shifting passenger and freight to sustainable modes of transport would ensure that London’s prosperous transport networks are best utilised for their most efficient capabilities. That said, the Mayor’s Transport Strategy must also be mindful of the crucial need for coherence with Government policies such as the National Aviation Policy.
Key strategic provision should also be made for the necessary protection of industrial land for future logistics and warehousing needs to provide for and propel a healthy and prosperous London.
CILT questions whether some of the ambitious targets within the DMTS are realistic, without more rigour and resolve. A number of important proposals still need further development to fully satisfy the goals. The final strategy must reflect the principles of complementary network development to best exploit all modes of transport and so fully support London’s economy and communities.
Daniel Parker-Klein, Head of Policy, CILT, says: ‘The DMTS contains many commendable objectives designed to meet the challenges London’s transport system faces. We do have concerns whether the DMTS plans covering a number of areas are sufficiently strong and well developed. It is hoped our review of the DMTS will allow the Mayor of London to better develop these proposals to ensure a cleaner, more efficient and thriving Capital of the UK.’
To view the full report click here.
