Fitzrovia gets walking last mile parcel delivery service

Multinational courier service UPS and the Cross River Partnership (CRP) have launched The London Light Freight Walking Trial in which light goods vehicles are replaced by porters who transport freight on foot using an electric-assisted trolley.

The project, which also includes input from London Borough of Camden, The Fitzrovia Partnership, and Heal’s contemporary furniture store is part of the Defra-funded Clean Air Logistics for London project.

It sees UPS deliver packages on foot utilising an electric-assisted trolley, developed by Fernhay. The trial will continue until September 2024.

Fiona Coull, senior programme manager at CRP, said, “Walking freight has real potential to reduce congestion and improve air quality, particularly in central, high-density locations such as Fitzrovia.

“We look forward to understanding the impacts of the trial, as it’s really important to explore these innovative logistics solutions and share any learnings gained.”

Artur Drenk, international sustainability director at UPS, added, “We are continuing to expand our alternative fuel fleet as we work towards reducing emissions per package.

“We are excited to introduce the electric-assisted walkers to the streets of Fitzrovia as part of our efforts to serve our customers in urban areas in a more sustainable way.”

The e-walker uses a 2.5kWh battery, has a load volume of 1.54cu m and can make 40 deliveries per journey.

CRP estimates that expanding walking freight could reduce London’s carbon by 4.7 million tonnes per year.