Birmingham is the latest city exploring the possibility of a freight consolidation centre (FCC) to reduce lorry movements in the city centre and has commissioned a study into their use.
Similar initiatives are already in place in Norwich and Bristol. Birmingham City Council says it will shortly be contacting retailers and businesses in the city to gauge their enthusiasm for a scheme.
Cabinet
member for transportation and street services Len Gregory says: "Studies elsewhere in the UK have shown that there can be many benefits gained by the introduction of [FCCs], including less congestion, reduction in noise and air pollution and in the number of accidents.
"Plus, of course, there would be less 'wear and tear' and maintenance of the highways and delivery areas, and hopefully reduced operating costs for the retail supply chain." The news follows the announcement of proposals from Meachers Transport to set up an FCC servicing Southampton city centre.
Last year, transport and warehousing firm PF Whitehead expressed interest in running an FCC in Croydon, Surrey. A spokesman for the South London Freight Quality Partnership says: "We have carried out a detailed scoping study and a report has been submitted for review, comments and recom-mendations."
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