The Freight Transport Association has warned that measures to restrict lorries in a report on cycling by MPs would be economically damaging.
The association welcomed publication of the All Party Parliamentary Cycling Group’s report “Get Britain Cycling” saying it supported the drive to increase cycling in Britain.
Christopher Snelling, head of urban logistics policy, said: “Aside from all the health benefits, cycling is an efficient use of road space. If more car journeys were done by bike that would free up more space for those who have no alternative, such as freight.”
On the issue of safety, FTA welcomed the recognition of the report of efforts made by the logistics industry.
The MP’s report recommends that HGVs should be restricted from busy routes at certain times. But, Snelling argued: “These routes are busy for a reason – they are the economic lifeblood of our urban areas. To prevent lorries using them would add to the difficulty and cost of running shops, offices and other businesses in our towns and cities. Just because a route is busy does not automatically mean it is dangerous.
“It is strange to be talking about introducing restrictions when it is public regulations that currently prevent lorries making deliveries at night, forcing deliveries into the first part of the day just when the most cyclists are on the road. If these deliveries don’t happen when customers need them; businesses will close and cities will suffer.”
FTA rejects cycle plan to restrict lorries
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