London’s first Cargo Bike Action Plan launched

TfL has launched a new strategy to promote and enable the growth of cargo bikes, in a bid to make them ‘a leading option’ for last-mile deliveries.

The use of cargo bikes is becoming more widespread. TfL estimates that cargo bikes could replace up to 4% of van kilometres by 2030 – a figure which rises to 17% in Central London.

This is significant for a number of reasons. Firstly, because cargo bikes present a lower risk to people walking and cycling than vans and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).

They are also more environmentally friendly. 

The plan, launched on 31 March at the National Cargo Bike Summit, sets out actions to promote cargo bike use and address barriers that inhibit or prevent a shift from vans to cargo bikes. 

Key actions within the plan include:   

• Developing a London safety standard for cargo bikes that adopts best practice, publishing guidance for both riders and operators   
• Exploring opportunities to provide space, such as micro-hubs and parking to support last mile cargo bike operations  
• Monitoring where key cargo bike routes are across the city to identify usage patterns and project future growth   
• Ensuring adequate and suitable capacity for cargo bikes when designing future TfL cycling schemes  
• Promoting cargo bikes when planning TfL, or supporting borough schemes – including Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and borough-led vehicle emissions-based schemes   
• Providing businesses with the tools and information they need to feel able to make the switch to cargo bikes   

Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “Cargo bikes are no longer a niche concept, and they can be real game changers when it comes to delivering freight and servicing trips. 

“Not only do they provide environmental benefits by not contributing to air pollution, they also make journeys more efficient, and present a much lower risk of danger to people walking and cycling than vans and HGVs. 

“I’m delighted that TfL is launching this action plan to explore how we can grow the use of cargo bikes on our road, to help both the environment and the health of Londoners, and build a better, safer, greener London for everyone.”

---