Source: GREENFLEET

Cross River Partnership (CRP) has completed a freight trial in collaboration with sustainable last-mile courier Delivery Mates, operating beneath London’s Waterloo Station. Together they have successfully demonstrated how sustainable logistics solutions can significantly reduce carbon emissions, ease congestion and improve air quality across the UK capital.

CRP’s low-emission deliveries pilot was based at the Waterloo Freight Hub, located in Arch 242A under London’s Waterloo Station. The four-month trial ran from 25 March to 23 July 2025 and involved Delivery Mates receiving, sorting and dispatching parcels using electrically assisted cargo bikes.

Measurable environmental and congestion benefits

During the trial, Delivery Mates’ cargo bikes travelled more than 4,600 kilometres and delivered over 20,000 parcels to residents and businesses across London. By shifting deliveries from conventional vans to cargo bikes, it is estimated that the project generated carbon savings of more than 2,500 kilograms of CO₂, while also helping to reduce road congestion in central London.

CRP confirmed that the transition to low-emission deliveries was achieved without any additional cost to customers.

Repurposing underused rail infrastructure

The project highlighted the potential for underused railway infrastructure to support cleaner urban freight. Through the creative reuse and retrofitting of an existing Network Rail and Department for Transport (DfT) asset, the trial demonstrated how railway arches could play a meaningful role in London’s transition to greener logistics.

Long-term potential of the Waterloo Freight Hub

Beyond its immediate environmental impact, the trial showcased the longer-term potential of the site. CRP said the space could be developed into a fully operational Multi-Modal Waterloo Freight Hub, with inbound deliveries arriving by rail, river and road, with a range of low-emission vehicles completing last-mile distribution.

Findings and future recommendations

A forthcoming report will set out the results of the pilot, including its environmental benefits, operational performance and key lessons learned. It will also chart the project’s journey from initial concept in 2022 to delivery in 2025, underlining the importance of strong coordination to avoid missed opportunities and maximise economic, community and environmental outcomes.

Partnership working and next steps

The pilot was delivered through collaboration between Cross River Partnership, Network Rail, the London Borough of Lambeth, the Department for Transport and London and Continental Railways (LCR).

To fully realise the site’s potential, CRP is now encouraging the Department for Transport to take further action. Its recommendations include leading a flexible programme for the next phase of the hub’s development, providing coordination funding to support expanded use of the Waterloo undercroft, and commissioning CRP to progress rail freight deliveries directly into Waterloo Station.