Photo: CRP
Westminster to launch micro-logistics hub
12 February 2025
by Christopher Carey
The City of Westminster, a borough in the centre of the UK’s capital London, has announced the trial of a new micro-logistics hub to optimise last-mile deliveries.
The six-month trial – delivered by the Cross River Partnership – will aim to reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable freight through “innovative consolidation practices and the promotion of zero-tailpipe emission transport modes such as e-cargo bikes”.
“Reducing emissions and improving air quality are top priorities for Westminster in achieving our aim of making the city net zero by 2040,” said Councillor Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture at Westminster City Council.
“The new hub will play a vital role in supporting more efficient low-emission deliveries across the city helping to reduce pollution, create new green jobs and support local businesses, contributing to a fairer and more sustainable Westminster.”
Measuring reductions
The council describes the hub as a small site that couriers use for their day-to-day deliveries to receive, sort and then send deliveries to their final destinations by cargo bikes or walking porters.
By consolidating deliveries, micro-logistics hubs can reduce the number of polluting vehicle trips and congestion, thereby improving local air quality.
The Cross River Partnership (CRP) will monitor the hub’s impact throughout its implementation and operation, measuring reductions in freight vehicle numbers, delivery vehicle miles, and emissions exposure.
At an estimated value-for-money rate of £39.75 (US$49.25) per kilogram of CO2 saved, the council says the project demonstrates the cost-effective nature of the initiative.
The trial is made possible by the council’s Carbon Offset Fund, which supports projects designed to reduce carbon emissions across the city and which is open to a wide range of applicants, including community groups, charities, public sector bodies, and businesses.
“The [council] team are currently in the early stages of site exploration, with no set deadlines for applications from low-emission couriers at this stage,” a City of Westminster spokesperson told Cities Today.
Building on previous CRP micro logistics hub trials in Pimlico and Wandsworth, the project will continue to explore new approaches to logistics in underutilised spaces.
Image: CRP
