RHA calls for freight commissioner in manifesto

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) is calling on the next Mayor of London to do more to support for the commercial vehicle sector.

In its Supplying London – The Road Freight and Coach Industry Manifesto for London, the RHA sets out its key asks ahead of the London mayoral election on May 2.

Key recommendations in the manifesto, include appointing a freight commissioner to co-ordinate logistics-related policy across devolved government and liaise between various bodies and establishing a London freight council.

It also wants to maintain access for lorries where they are needed by seeking a commitment from the Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL) to identify and maintain key freight routes in the capital which could reduce congestion and improve air quality.

The Mayor, says the RHA, should also consider traffic prioritisation on these routes including allowing bus lanes to be used by HGVs to reduce congestion.

Major infrastructure projects and new developments must ensure adequate loading bays and kerbside access are provided to HGVs to ensure efficient deliveries, it added.

Richard Smith, RHA managing director, said: “We are committed to working with the next Mayor of London to ensure more efficient freight and coach journeys.

“Our members based in the capital stand ready to work with the next Mayor to take forward the priorities within this manifesto and ensure London’s commercial vehicle sector has the support it needs.”