Construction logistics plans (CLPs) are the golden thread that runs through the CLOCS Standard. A CLP is an important management tool for planners, clients, developers and principal contractors.
The CLP focuses specifically on construction supply chains and how their impact on the road network can be reduced. The construction supply chain covers all movements of goods, waste and servicing activity to and from site.
A robust and consistent approach to construction logistics planning will reduce:
- road risk: improving the safety for other vulnerable road users
- environmental impact: lowering vehicle emissions and noise levels
- congestion: reducing vehicle trips, particularly in peak periods
- overall cost: creating efficient working practices and reduced deliveries
The construction phase of a development will have environmental, safety and congestion impacts on the road network and the surrounding community.
These impacts can vary depending on the size, timescale and location of the development. For larger developments that may take many years to construct, the construction phase can have a greater impact than the operational phase.
A CLP provides the framework for understanding and managing construction vehicle activity into and out of a proposed development, encouraging modal shift and reducing overall vehicle numbers.
A full assessment of all phases of construction should be included and detail:
- the amount of construction traffic generated
- routes the construction vehicles will use
- any traffic management that will be in place
- any policies which encourage modal shift
- the impact on relevant community considerations
Community considerations address the impact on the surrounding community, especially when residentail areas and/or facilities like schools, hospitals, health centres, community centres, sports facilities, transport hubs and cycle lanes are situated near the works area.
See community considerations for more guidance.
Roles and responsibilities
Responsible for reviewing and approving the Outline and the Detailed CLP. They are also responsible for ensuring construction is carried out according to the terms of the CLP. They will respond to complaints raised by the community and follow them up with the client/developer.
Hold overall responsibility for the management of the development. They are responsible for agreeing the terms of the CLP and ensuring that their contractors conform with the agreed measures.
Typically write the Outline CLP for planning approval. They are responsible for working with the client/developer and local authority planners to help define which planned measures can be agreed at the planning stage.
Typically write the Detailed CLPs which reflect the actual plans for the construction of the site. Principal Contractors are responsible for the day-to-day management of the construction site and for ensuring that the CLP and the agreed planned measures are implemented on the site.
Support and resources available
CLOCS has developed a number of resources including guidance, case studies and templates to facilitate consistent construction logistics planning.
Additionally, CLOCS delivers CLP training at three levels – Foundation, Practitioner and Advanced – with courses delivered online throughout the year. These courses are suitable for those who just need a basic understanding of what a CLP is and how it works, right through to those who develop, manage and review CLPs as part of their role.
CLP practitioner register
Everyone who completes CLP Practitioner training is listed on the CLOCS CLP Practitioner register.
Note that licences expire after 5 years but can be extended by re-attending the Practitioner training or attending the Advanced training.
Planned Measures
Construction Logistics Planning aims to minimise the impact of construction so it is vital that there is a commitment to a range of specific techniques, known as Planned Measures, agreed to throughout the planning permission process.
These techniques are used to influence behaviours that reduce road risk, environmental impact and congestion.
