London Lorry Control Scheme

The London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS) was set up in 1986 to reduce the disturbance caused to residents by heavy lorries at night and weekends. 

The London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS) was set up in 1986 to reduce the disturbance caused to residents by heavy lorries at night and weekends. The scheme operates from 9pm to 7am during the week and from 1pm on Saturdays and all day on Sundays.  During the hours of operation, HGVs over 18 tonnes are required to maximise use of the exempt route network and minimise use of the restricted network. The requirements of the LLCS can lead to long diversions, resulting in increased emissions and increased cost to industry. 

What is Logistics UK campaigning for? 

Logistics UK is campaigning for a relaxation of the LLCS as night deliveries help alleviate congestion during the day, and technological advances over the last 18 years have led to a huge decrease in lorry noise levels and emissionsLondon Councils, the body who operates the scheme on behalf of the 33 London boroughs has undertaken a review of the scheme. 

Logistics UK played a central role in the review and London Councils has published the London Lorry Control Scheme Review - Update and Inital Recommendations for changes to the scheme ranging from better information and a simplified permitting system to reviewing the operational hours and potentially creating a noise standard for London to recognise and exempt quieter vehicles from the LLCS.  Some of these changes will happen quite quickly, but others are likely to take a couple of years.

Find out more

London Councils has published a full detailed report of the LLCS review which can be viewed using the following link: London Lorry Control Scheme Review - Update & Initial Recommendations together with a shorter executive summary outlining the key recommendations.

Contact Natalie Chapman, Head of South of England and Urban Policy at Logistics UK