Portsmouth’s first-ever micro logistics hub has officially opened at the Hilsea Industrial Estate in a major push to reduce van traffic, ease city centre congestion, and improve air quality through sustainable last-mile deliveries.
The Portsmouth Micro Logistics Hub, launched by Solent Transport in partnership with Portsmouth City Council, Delivery Mates, and Decarbon Logistics Solutions (a Volofleet Portfolio Company), marks a significant innovation in urban freight delivery.
The facility will consolidate parcel deliveries from national couriers and local businesses into a single site, where packages will then be dispatched to their final destinations via electric cargo cycles.
Backed by funding from the Solent Future Transport Zone programme, the project aims to explore whether micro-hubs offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional van-based delivery systems.
Up to 1,000 parcels a day are expected to pass through the hub, which will operate for an initial 12-month trial period, with ongoing evaluation led by the University of Portsmouth and supported by the Department for Transport.
Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said: "I'm sure it will have a positive impact, especially in our congested city centre areas.
"By using cargo cycles for last-mile deliveries, we're not only supporting local businesses but also making our urban transport cleaner and greener, reducing traffic congestion and making our air cleaner to breathe where we need it the most.”
Paul McCormack, CEO of Decarbon Logistics Solutions, said: “We’ve valued collaborating with Solent Transport to develop this micro-consolidation hub.
"By applying our expertise in site qualification, design, installation, and safety, we created an optimal operational space while working with the landlord and managing its development.
"This project is important in advancing emission-free deliveries by turning analysis into practical solutions through strategic hubs, utilising council assets effectively. We look forward to working with Delivery Mates on its ongoing success.”