Pioneering the Future of Urban Logistics: Working with Decarbon Logistics Solutions

Since 2023, Solent Transport has partnered with Decarbon Logistics Solutions (DLS), a Volofleet Portfolio Company, to develop sustainable urban logistics initiatives across the Solent area. DLS has previously worked with the Cross River Partnership and have already launched a series of successful micro logistics hubs in London. DLS brings a wealth of expertise in logistics consultancy, micro logistics hub management and industry engagement, making it an ideal partner in our freight decarbonisation trials.

Logistics Expertise

DLS has been supporting the Solent Future Transport Zone (FTZ) Sustainable Urban Logistics programme, contributing towards the planning and preparation of micro logistics hubs. Their work has included

  • Site Selection – joining our working group with local authority partners and taking part in site visits to assess potential locations for micro logistics hubs across the Solent area. DLS provided detailed site assessments and used extensive experience to inform the optimal shortlist of sites and logistics approaches.
  • Market Engagement – raising awareness of our projects and supporting with market testing, acting as a known and trusted face across the sustainable last-mile logistics industry. This helped in procuring a reputable operator for the Portsmouth micro logistics hub.
  • Planning and Regulatory Guidance – Securing planning approval on our behalf to set up a micro logistics hub in Winchester. DLS also prepared technical drawings and proactively engaged with the local council building control teams on issues such as fire safety, informing the design of our micro logistics hubs.
  • Electric Vehicle Technology – As an expert in sustainable last-mile logistics, DLS has been advising on EV technology and battery charging infrastructure needed for different micro logistics hubs.

Portsmouth Micro Logistics Hub

In summer 2024, DLS was appointed as the site manager for a 12-month trial of our Portsmouth Micro Logistics Hub. Ahead of launch, DLS is refining the site specification, supporting logistics operator procurement and overseeing onboarding. Once the hub is operational, DLS will take a hands-on role in:

  • Managing day-to-day operator performance and reporting, ensuring compliance.
  • Overseeing installation and maintenance of on-site infrastructure.
  • Support with marketing, branding and raising awareness of the trial.
  • Liaising with the site owners, Portsmouth City Council.
  • Providing regular updates on operator performance, issue management, opportunities and the impact of any policy changes.
  • Facilitating a smooth transition at the end of the 12-month trial, including decommissioning or exploring options for continuation.

Pioneering the Future of Urban Logistics

This collaboration with DLS represents a significant step in delivery of the Solent FTZ Sustainable Urban Logistics programme. The micro-consolidation work stream seeks to understand the potential for reducing congestion and emissions while improving the efficiency of last-mile deliveries in the Solent area. It is funded by the Department for Transport.  The expertise that DLS brings will help ensure effective trial management and is providing valuable insights that will shape future logistics solutions in the Solent area.

Find out more on the project webpage at https://solent-transport.com/ftz/micro-consolidation/