Developed with Grid Smarter Cities, the project – which launched in February 2024 - involves delivery drivers booking kerbside drop-off slots in advance using an app.
The scheme manages five loading bays on both sides of Walworth Road. Registered drivers can make and manage bookings to secure a space before delivery, which means they don’t have to drive around looking for a space. There has been a big increase in usage since the scheme was launched in February 2024 with around 26 companies using it to deliver to 15 local stores.
Cllr James McAsh, Southwark Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets and Waste, said: “This is the first initiative of its kind in the UK and we’re proud to be leading the way. This benefits local residents and businesses, reduces parking stress and congestion, and makes life much easier for delivery drivers too. It supports our Streets for People plans which are all about making Southwark’s streets cleaner, greener and safer.”
Neil Herron, CEO and Founder at Grid Smarter Cities, said: “We’re proud of our partnership with Southwark Council delivering the world’s first high street bookable loading bays, showcasing practical innovation in action.”
The council’s Streets for People plans are based on the largest consultation ever run by the council. There were over 9,000 responses, with 73% of respondents saying they are concerned about the effects of climate change, and 72% worried about the impact of poor air quality on children.
Residents said they want more trees and green space; more accessible pavements; less traffic; better lighting; traffic calming; segregated cycling; cycle hangars and pedestrian crossings. The new plan sets out to deliver these, transforming streets and communities, improving walking and cycling routes and changing road layouts to improve bus journey times.