British Land has secured planning approval for an ultra-low carbon logistics hub at 5 Kingdom Street, Paddington Central.

The 121,000 sq ft facility will provide inbound access to HGVs with outbound deliveries via smaller electric vehicles and electric cargo bikes. The former Crossrail works site will serve the whole of Westminster and will remove around 100 large vans from the Borough’s roads every day.

Mike Best, Head of Logistics at British Land, said: “The post-pandemic demand for ultrafast deliveries comes with major impacts on emissions, air quality, congestion and road safety, which urban logistics hubs can combat. Replacing traditional vans with sustainable electric vehicles and bikes can deliver carbon savings of up to 90% per parcel alongside the wider positive impact on air quality and wider environment for local communities. 

“We are well positioned to unlock urban logistics space in London. We look forward to progressing our plans at 5 Kingdom Street and across our wider London portfolio.” 

Research by Centre for London and University College London, identified the potential for urban logistics hubs in central London to cut carbon and pollution from last-mile freight distribution, improve overall efficiency and reliability, and reduce delivery times and costs for operators.

It is estimated that the site will create over 500 new jobs and training opportunities.