The needs of logistics operators must be front and centre in the next London Plan, according to one of the biggest trade associations.
The long-awaited ‘Towards a New London Plan’ consultation document was published last week and sets the direction for the next iteration of the capital’s strategic planning policy.
The consultation will help create the strategic plan for Greater London, setting out the requirements for homes, jobs, transport and other infrastructure.
Jonathan Walker, head of infrastructure and planning policy at business group Logistics UK, welcomed the publication of the document, but stressed that the needs of logistics operators must be considered at the outset when developing the final plan.
“Logistics in London is a nationally significant industry, employing more than a quarter of a million people, so it is positive that the consultation document appreciates its importance to the economy.
“Logistics UK and its members spent considerable time working with the Greater London Authority (GLA) last year to outline the role logistics can play in London’s strategic development, so it is pleasing our feedback is reflected in the consultation document.
“The consultation recognises the competition for land that is making it increasingly difficult to develop new logistics sites – any solution for protecting industrial land needs to be developed in conjunction with industry and must be enforced.”
Walker also said the new London Plan needs to reflect the requirements for the logistics sector to be able to provide zero-emission distribution, whether this is via increased electricity generation, creation of suitable operation centres or allocation of land for vehicle charging infrastructure.
“Freight traffic must not be seen as the enemy – our members need access to London to provide the essential goods and services which business and communities rely on, every day,” he went on.
“The logistics sector is an intrinsic part of the solution for building a more sustainable economy, and logistics requirements need to be considered at the outset of any strategic planning for the capital to ensure the final plans meet the needs of businesses, residents and visitors alike.”
