cycling in London

A fourth consultation into London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) has launched, despite an FTA warning that the mayor’s initiative will not achieve zero vehicular harm.

TfL wants public feedback on its final scheme proposals and the proposed traffic regulation order required to implement its DVS scheme.

The consultation follows three previous rounds since 2016 and TfL said it has so far received positive feedback from the public on its “world-first proposal to revolutionise the safety of heavy goods vehicles on London’s streets".

HGVs will be categorised depending on the level of a driver’s direct vision from a cab, and will then be given a rating between zero and five.

Only those vehicles rated ‘one-star’ and above, or those that have comprehensive safety systems, will be able to operate in London from 2020.

However, the FTA said the DVS was not the right way to work towards zero accidents.

“While the updated proposals for DVS are more workable for operators then earlier versions, it remains true that technological development and design standards for new vehicles – which would be best set at an international level – would provide a robust, long-term solution for road safety,” said Natalie Chapman, FTA head of urban policy.

“FTA is calling on the mayor to realise the value this would provide and commit to focusing on new vehicle technologies to fast-track zero vehicular harm in the capital.

“Sadiq Khan seems determined to focus on visibility from the cab, which has limited benefits, when it is new technology that will deliver far greater and more ongoing safety improvements.”

The final consultation closes on 23 May.

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