The FTA has given a cautious welcome to Transport for London’s (TfL) plans to accomodate the growing number of cyclists in the capital but warned that freight deliveries nust be considered in any new designs.
Launched last week (13 June), the draft London Cycling Design Standards showcased the latest ideas in street design aimed at offering cyclists protection from vehicles.
FTA head of policy for London Natalie Chapman, told Motortransport.co.uk that it was a positive step by TfL: "There are some quite ambitious plans about increasing the amount of segregated cycling space, which in principle is good and we support this.
“But our concern is what does this segregation mean for freight deliveries?" she said. "Will it be taking away capacity for vehicle movements? Will it be taking away kerbside for actual deliveries to take place?”
Chapman added that as many of the schemes would be developed and delivered by individual boroughs, rather than TfL, it was important that the guidance promoted a uniform approach.
Projects discussed include European-style segregated cycle lanes, whereby lorries could park up in bays on the offside of the lane for deliveries made by foot across the infrastructure, or alternatively park halfway across the cycle route with two wheels on the pavement allowing space for cyclists to pass. TfL said this type of lane is observed in many cities in Europe.
However, Chapman warned that such rigid infrastructure might not be the most suitable option for freight deliveries.
“The problem with installing infrastructure means it's there 24/7, so even if you re-time your deliveries to the middle of the night, if you've got raised kerb space preventing deliveries, then it doesn't matter what time your delivery is.”
TfL also advised planners take into account the loading and unloading requirements from different types of freight deliveries, such as the need for more clear space at the back of a loading bay for lorries fitted with tail-lifts, or the need for more kerbside space for curtainsiders.
Chapman believes this recognition of the sector’s requirements is a sign of the “bigger voice” the sector had following the Olympics.
She added that the FTA will now be examing all of TfL's proposals to see if, and how, they will affect members.
The consultation ends on 25 July.
