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Birmingham is the latest UK city to consider using consolidation centres to cut the number of trucks on its streets. The city council is to launch a study into the use of consolidation centres to reduce the number of deliveries to shopping centres a report is due to be published in the spring. Councillor Len Gregory, Birmingham's cabinet member for transportation and street services, says: "Studies elsewhere in the UK have shown that there can be many benefits to be gained by the introduction  of UFCCs [urban freight consolidation centres], including less congestion, reduction in noise and air pollution and in the number of accidents."

Researchers will contact retailers and businesses in the city and ask them to complete a questionnaire about their current delivery arrangements, as well asking them for any other comments. A council spokeswoman adds that the study will also look at other UK cities which have introduced consolidation centres, including Bristol and Norwich.

Southampton is also considering a consolidation centre - it is looking at a scheme suggested by local haulier Meachers Transport. This involves basing the centre at Meachers base on Mauretania Rd and seeking funding from the European Union, which is keen to encourage consolidation centres because of their environmental benefits.