Cyclists will be able to get an HGV driver’s view of the road at the FTA’s Managing Freight in London conference next month.The conference, on 2 June at the Oval, will cover a variety of issues, ranging from the development of cycle superhighways to Clocs, Fors, retrofitting of safety equipment and penalty charge notices. It will also see the Metropolitan Police host an Exchanging Places event the evening before the conference.
Exchanging Places is designed to highlight safe tactics for sharing the roads and give cyclists the opportunity to see the road from the driver’s seat of an HGV. The vehicle will be provided by Volvo Trucks, which is also sponsoring the one-day conference alongside TfL and Brigade.
Sergeant Simon Castle said: “We’re proud of what we’re achieving with the Exchanging Places programme and keen to continue its success. However, we are conscious that this issue needs to be addressed from several angles.
“The Met’s Cycle Safety Team works with TfL and local authorities to improve London’s road network. With the Industrial HGV Task Force and Commercial Vehicle Unit, we target unscrupulous and dangerous hauliers and work with the industry to develop better practices, better drivers and safer vehicles.”
Exchanging Places events have seen more than 18,000 cyclists take part in the scheme, with 97% saying they will change their riding as a result and 99% offering to recommend it to a friend.
London transport commissioner Sir Peter Hendy will make the key note address at the conference.
“It is impossible to underestimate the importance of freight in the capital as without it London could not function.
“The capital’s roads are facing new pressures, with a population set to reach
10 million by 2030 and infrastructure changes to meet resident and business demands,” he said.
“As we face these changes, we’re pleased to support the FTA as it works with its members and the industry to understand and address these challenges,” he added.
Chaired by FTA chief executive David Wells, delegates will also hear from Westminster City Council; cyclist training body Bikeability, operators, customers and FTA policy experts.
- For more information or to book your palce at the event, Visit the Managing Freight in London website
