Online shopping growth causing congestion

The Local Government Association has warned that an increase in the use of online shopping is leading to increased congestion and wear and tear of our roads.

The LGA is claiming that traffic caused by the number of Light Goods Vehicles (LGV) on our streets has soared, with LGVs traffic having increased by 20 per cent from 41.4 billion vehicle miles travelled to 49.1 billion over the last five years. Comparatively, online shopping has increased by almost 23 per cent in the last year alone, hitting £8.4 billion in 2016/17.

The LGA is calling for the government to carry out a radical new strategy to provide a fully-funded plan for the growing number of vehicles on the nation’s roads, including LGVs, as well as new powers to better manage congestion, urging the government to recognise the need to match the increased infrastructure pressures facing our local roads with additional funds.

Martin Tett, LGA Transport spokesman, said: “Online shopping helps people buy the things they want at a click of a button, whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a weekend food shop. But it is clear that the growing demand for online shopping means the number of Light Goods Vehicles on the road is rising to meet demand. This is adding to congestion, and wear and tear on our local roads, which already face a £9.3 billion repair bill.

“Tackling this bill must be a national priority. Unless we take action now, our roads crisis will continue to escalate and have major consequences for the national economy. Long-term, consistent funding is the only way councils can carry out the desperately-needed local road improvements we need and reduce congestion. This would allow all vehicles, including LGVs, to complete their journeys quicker and with less stress, meaning it could become even easier for people to get their delivery by the next day.”