INTRODUCTION
This study was initiated to look into the potential for using heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) with a higher payload to carry bulk construction materials in London, with a view to reducing overall HGV volumes. The study undertook desktop research and consultation to look at the barriers to the use of larger vehicles. Several recommendations have been made which have the potential to reduce the number of construction vehicles on London’s roads.
OBJECTIVES
The overall objective was to conduct a technical comparison into the use of rigid versus articulated HGV combinations, within the construction industry – including the reasons for use of each type, barriers to entry and a commercial, environmental and safety benefit analysis. The specific objectives of the project included:
- Undertake technical research on a range of construction vehicle operators within London and Europe to understand the reasons for using specific HGV types.
- Quantify and compare the commercial, environmental, operational and safety benefit/s of each variant
- Outline who receives the commercial gain from any improved efficiency
- Investigate any infrastructure, construction or disposal site barriers to use either of the HGV types specified
- Identify and case study any innovations which have addressed previous limitations/concerns on
vehicle choice i.e. sliding floors - Identify and case study operators using articulated HGVs in comparison with an articulated
variant - Engage with industry and trade associations.