Cross River Partnership supports council's plans with low-emission micro logistics hub

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Cross River Partnership (CRP), is proud to announce its continued commitment to delivering sustainable logistics solutions by supporting the development of a low-emission micro logistics hub in the City of Westminster.

A micro logistics hub is 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 enabling consolidation of deliveries, micro logistics hubs can reduce the number of polluting vehicle trips and congestion, thereby improving local air quality.

The proposed micro logistics hub will optimise last-mile deliveries through innovative consolidation practices and the promotion of zero-tailpipe emission transport modes such as e-cargo bikes. With a supported 6-month trial for a low-emission courier in Westminster, this initiative delivered by CRP will enable significant reductions in carbon emissions, support sustainable freight, and help local businesses. The project will also create new green jobs, providing vital economic opportunities.

CRP will monitor the hub’s impact throughout its implementation and operation. The project will measure reductions in freight vehicle numbers, delivery vehicle miles, and emissions exposure. At an estimated value-for-money rate of £39.75 per kilogram of CO2 saved, the project demonstrates the cost-effective nature of the initiative.

This micro logistics hub aligns with Westminster City Council’s strategies, including the draft Sustainable Transport Strategy, the Freight, Servicing and Deliveries Strategy and Action Plan, and the Zero Carbon City 2040 Action Plan. The project also supports the city’s broader vision for fairer communities, healthier streets, and a decarbonised urban transport network by 2040.

Building on previous successful CRP micro logistics hub trials in Pimlico and Wandsworth, this hub will continue to explore new approaches to logistics in underutilised spaces, enhancing Westminster’s capacity for green growth. CRP will work closely with the central London local authority, local businesses, couriers, and community stakeholders to ensure the hub’s long-term viability and operational success.

This low-emission micro logistics hub trial is made possible by the council's Carbon Offset Fund, which supports projects designed to reduce carbon emissions across the city.

The fund is open to a wide range of applicants, including community groups, charities, public sector bodies, and businesses. Through this, the council is hoping to empower local initiatives to take meaningful action on climate change, contributing to Westminster’s goal of becoming a net-zero city.

Councillor Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture at Westminster City Council, said:

Reducing emissions and improving air quality are top priorities for Westminster in achieving our aim of making the city net zero by 2040. 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.

We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Cross River Partnership on this important project.”

Isidora Rivera Vollmer, Project Manager, Cross River Partnership, said:

We are excited to collaborate with Westminster City Council on the next steps of this project, advancing sustainable freight solutions and supporting the delivery of a greener, safer, and more equitable city.

At CRP, we blend strategic innovation with a strong collaborative approach to sustainability, ensuring that initiatives like this micro logistics hub not only drive environmental improvements but also enhance the health, economy, and resilience of local communities.”