A new guide issued by the Freight Transport Association highlights the vital role of logistics in the economic growth of Scotland’s cities.

The policy document – Supporting economic growth in Scotland’s cities – builds on the legacy of collaborative and innovative working practices which maintained efficient services in Glasgow during the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

The document deals with the importance of freight to Scotland’s city economies, out-of-hours delivery guidance, improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions and cycling safety issues.

More than 360,000 tonnes of goods are moved by lorries in Scotland every day. Without an efficient logistics sector, shop shelves would be bare, hospitals would run out of medication and cash machines would be empty.

Chris MacRae, FTA’s Head of Policy in Scotland, led the Association’s work with stakeholders on ensuring continuity of freight delivery and servicing during the Commonwealth Games.

He said:

“Scotland’s cities are its economic power house and vital to its economic development. Efficient urban logistics are a key determinant of this, so facilitating the correct policies to enable this is essential.

“The Commonwealth Games taught us a lot in terms of managing freight delivery and servicing during a ‘business as unusual’ situation so it’s important to build upon best practice and experience to ensure urban freight deliveries and economic growth can succeed.”

For copies of the guide please contact the FTA press office at press.office@fta.co.uk or by phone on 01892 552255.