The London Councils’ decision to suspend the London Lorry Control Scheme (LLLS) will allow logistics businesses to keep supermarkets and other retailers stocked during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to FTA. The business organisation, which represents the logistics sector, is thrilled the government has listened to its advice and agreed to suspend the LLLS until 31 April 2020.

David Wells, CEO of FTA, recently wrote to the Chair of London Councils urging him to extend the hours in which deliveries can be made to supermarkets to help keep shelved stocked during this crisis. He comments:

“FTA and its members strongly welcome the London Councils’ decision to listen to our advice and suspended temporarily the London Lorry Control Scheme; this is a vital step forward in the industry’s response to the challenges posed by COVID-19. By extending the hours in which deliveries can be made, it strengthens the resilience of the supply chain and helps businesses to keep supermarkets stocked with the essential items consumers need to remain healthy and safe during this unprecedented time, including food, hygiene products and other basic items.”

Mr Wells continues: “We advise all logistics businesses affected by this decision to follow the guidance and code of practice developed by Transport for London, with support from FTA. By following this advice, operators can understand how to retime their deliveries effectively, while not disturbing local residents.”

The guidance and code of practice are available to view here: https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/delivering-efficiently/deliveries-toolkits#on-this-page-1

Efficient logistics is vital to keep the UK trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. FTA is one of the biggest business groups in the UK, supporting, shaping and standing up for safe and efficient logistics. It is the only business group in the UK that represents all of logistics, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.