The DfT publication of guidelines on the quiet delivery of goods to businesses outside normal delivery hours, which the Association believes will help shift more freight activity outside of the peak times.
Natalie Chapman, head of policy for London said: ‘There are multiple benefits of shifting deliveries out of congested peak hours: improved journey times, productivity and fuel consumption; lower emissions and reduced risk of conflict between heavy goods vehicles and vulnerable road users. However, it is important that the process is properly managed to ensure that those living nearby are not unduly disturbed. These new guides will help all those involved to understand the process and the role that they can play in opening up the delivery window.’
The new guides published by the Department are aimed at retailers, local communities and the construction sector among other groups, and are based on previous collaboration between FTA, the Noise Abatement Society and the Department for Transport.
This latest DfT publication recognises that congestion and delays affect freight and retail business and also local communities, particularly residents, adding that ‘Quiet Deliveries’ schemes will provide a way to address these issues.
Chapman added: 'The Quiet Deliveries Demonstration Scheme was a groundbreaking set of out of hours deliveries trials which proved the concept that deliveries can be shifted to earlier in the morning, later in the evening and into the night whilst protecting the rights of local residents to a peaceful night’s sleep.'