Following the announcement that only cars and buses will be allowed to use the Hammersmith Bridge once repair works are completed, Denise Beedell, Policy Manager for Vans and Urban at FTA, the business organisation representing the logistics sector, commented:

“FTA is calling for Transport for London and Hammersmith & Fulham Council to allow – at the very least – light commercial vehicles (LCVs) to use this strategically important river crossing once repair work is complete. The logistics sector is vital to London’s economy, providing businesses, schools and hospitals with the goods they need to operate. The use of commercial vehicles, including vans and LCVs, plays an integral role in this; we are concerned that blocking the bridge off will be detrimental to this vital sector and wider local economy.

“While FTA is pleased to see a programme of repair work on Hammersmith Bridge has been commissioned, and we understand the need for a weight restriction as has been the case previously, we are calling on Transport for London and Hammersmith & Fulham Council to at least permit LCVs to use the crossing.”

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain 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.  A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.