Construction Site Logistics Plan: Balancing Build and Safety on Live Sites

Managing a construction site in a busy urban environment requires more than hard hats and signage. Without a robust logistics framework, materials can arrive at the wrong time, deliveries can clash, and pedestrian routes can become hazardous. 

That is where a Construction Logistics Plan (CLP) becomes essential. At Capital Transport Planning, we specialise in delivering tailored, TfL-compliant logistics solutions across London, helping contractors and developers keep their sites safe, efficient, and fully compliant. 

What Is a Construction Logistics Plan? 

A Construction Logistics Plan is a detailed strategy that outlines how people, vehicles, equipment, and materials are moved in and around a construction site. It ensures smooth operation while protecting both the workforce and the public. 

Types of Construction Logistics Plans 

Type	Purpose
Outline CLP	Submitted at the planning stage to assess potential site impact.
Detailed CLP	Required before construction begins; includes full logistics detail.

For developers building in London, a TfL-compliant construction logistics plan is often required as part of the planning approval process. 

Why a Construction Site Logistics Plan Matters 

Ensures Site Safety 

A live construction site has multiple moving parts: vehicles entering and exiting, cranes operating, materials arriving, and personnel moving on foot. A logistics plan ensures: 

• Safe pedestrian segregation 

• Clear vehicle movement zones 

• Defined access and egress routes 

• Reduced risk of accidents and injuries 
  

Supports Local Authority Compliance 

Many London boroughs and Transport for London (TfL) require developers to provide a construction logistics plan as part of planning conditions, especially in zones with high pedestrian traffic or limited road access. 

By implementing a logistics plan early, you avoid costly enforcement action, planning delays, or reputational risk. 

Key Components of a Construction Logistics Plan 

Component	Function
Vehicle Routing Strategy	Defines access points, delivery routes, and turning space.
Site Access Management	Details gates, security, and controlled entry systems.
Material Handling Zones	Allocates safe, organised areas for unloading and storage.
Pedestrian Segregation	Ensures clear paths and signage for site operatives and the public.
Delivery Scheduling	Reduces congestion and minimises disruption to surrounding areas.
Safety Measures	Includes traffic marshals, speed control, and visibility enhancements.

All our plans meet or exceed TfL and borough-specific requirements, such as construction logistics London guidelines and construction logistics plan TfL documentation. 

Live Sites Require Extra Consideration 

Operating within a live construction site—especially one involving occupied buildings or active public spaces—adds complexity. You may face: 

• Limited space for manoeuvring or storage 

• Strict time restrictions on deliveries 

• Nearby schools, residents, or businesses requiring uninterrupted access 

In these cases, a construction site logistics plan must be meticulously tailored to accommodate safety, operational efficiency, and stakeholder coordination. 

Our Construction Logistics Planning Services 

At Capital Transport Planning, we provide comprehensive logistics planning that includes: 

• Construction logistics plans for planning applications 

• TfL-compliant frameworks tailored to central London projects 

• Coordination with Construction Traffic Management Plans (CTMPs) 

• Detailed phasing and risk assessment strategies 

• Vehicle routing and swept path analysis 

• Health and Safety (H&S) integration into all stages of planning 

Construction Logistics Plan in London: TfL Best Practice 

Transport for London has outlined key expectations for construction logistics in its TfL Construction Logistics Plan guidance. A compliant plan will: 

• Identify vehicle numbers and frequency 

• Plan safe access for large vehicles 

• Reduce peak-hour disruption 

• Align with Construction Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) standards 

Our plans are built with TfL guidance as the foundation, ensuring compliance and easier approval from local authorities. 

Conclusion: Safety, Strategy, and Compliance in One Document 

A Construction Logistics Plan is not simply a compliance document—it is a strategic tool that drives safe, sustainable construction on live sites. 

Whether you're developing a mixed-use block in Islington or a commercial unit in Canary Wharf, our team at Capital Transport Planning ensures your site logistics are expertly managed. 

Our proven experience across construction logistics London, including detailed TfL-compliant plans, gives you the confidence to move forward safely and efficiently. 

Ready to get started? Contact us to discuss your site requirements or book a consultation with one of our transport logistics specialists. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1: Is a Construction Logistics Plan mandatory in London? 

In most boroughs, yes. If your project affects highways, footpaths, or schools, you will likely be required to submit a CLP as part of the planning or discharge process. 

Q2: How is a CLP different from a CTMP? 

While both focus on safety and logistics, a CLP looks at strategic, long-term movement of materials and vehicles, while a CTMP deals more with day-to-day traffic and safety arrangements during active construction. 

Q3: Can you help with revisions if our site conditions change? 

Absolutely. We offer full lifecycle logistics support, from initial planning through to site completion, and we regularly update plans as site phases evolve. 

Q4: What types of projects benefit most from a Construction Logistics Plan?

Construction Logistics Plan is essential for urban developments where space is restricted and logistics coordination is critical such as residential towers, commercial buildings, infrastructure upgrades, and refurbishment projects in busy areas.

Q5: How long does it take to prepare a Construction Logistics Plan?

The timeline can vary depending on project complexity and borough requirements, but most CLPs are completed within 1 to 2 weeks. For urgent cases or planning submission deadlines, our team can expedite the process while ensuring all TfL and local authority standards are met.