The amount of traffic caused by the number of Light Goods Vehicles (LGV) on the roads has increased by 20% over the last five years, new analysis has revealed.
The research, carried out by the Local Government Association (LGA), found an increase in online shopping has led to a rise in the congestion caused by LGVs. Over the last five years, LGVs traffic has increased from 41.4 billion vehicle miles travelled to 49.1 billion.
At the same time, online shopping has risen by almost a quarter (23%) in the last year alone.
The LGA is warning this trend must be matched by long-term funding for councils to bring roads up to scratch, including reinvesting 2 pence per litre of existing fuel duty on local roads maintenance.
Cllr Martin Tett, LGA transport spokesman, said: ‘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 £9.3bn 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.’
