England likely to allow delivery robots on paths after law change

Ministers in England are signaling a willingness to change the law to allow autonomous delivery robots on pavements, a move that has drawn criticism from safety campaigners. The Department for Transport is considering placing these low-speed robots, often used for grocery or food delivery, in the same regulatory category as electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs. This would resolve the current ambiguity stemming from the 1835 Highways Act, which prohibits "carriages" on footways.

While the government emphasizes a focus on safety, pedestrian advocacy groups like Living Streets argue that the robots will exacerbate pavement congestion, posing particular risks to the elderly, visually impaired, and those using mobility aids. These box-shaped, six-wheeled robots, manufactured by US firm Starship Technologies, are already operating in several English towns and cities, though their legal status remains unclear. Starship Technologies hopes to deploy over 10,000 robots in England and establish a UK manufacturing site if the legal framework is clarified.

Living Streets has urged caution, highlighting that the robots can create hazards and occupy space crucial for accessible design. The charity has released a video depicting robots bumping into pedestrians and is campaigning under the banner "Pavement Overload." Catherine Woodhead, CEO of Living Streets, stated that pavements should be for people and that the robots' operation puts pedestrians at risk, especially those with mobility issues, adding to existing pavement obstructions. The charity demands that pedestrian safety and accessibility be baseline requirements in any future consultations.

A government spokesperson affirmed that while innovation is welcomed for economic benefit, pedestrian safety is paramount. The law will be updated following public consultation and parliamentary time.