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Lorry drivers have hit out at plans for a compulsory second window in lorry doors in a bid to reduce crashes.

Transport for London is consulting on proposals for compulsory measures to improve visibility order to cut own on fatal collisions with cyclists.

The move comes after eight cyclists were killed in collisions with vehicles on London's roads last year, with seven of those deaths resulting from crashes with lorries.

TfL has said transparent panels in passenger side doors would offer lorry drivers a "panoramic view" of the road and help reduce accidents.

But the Freight Transport Association has spoken out against the plan, saying it could cost an estimated £280 million to fit the new panels.

Head of National and Regional Policy for the FTA, Christopher Snelling, said: “Improving visibility for HGV drivers is really important, but there are many different ways to achieve this.

“We are disappointed that the Mayor has chosen to focus on just one option without clear evidence that this is the best way to deliver the desired outcome.

"Side panels have limitations, for example if the vehicle is carrying a second crew member or equipment then the view may be obscured.”

However, the plans were backed by Mayor Boris Johnson, who said last year: "I propose to require further safety modifications to all HGVs in London, including the retrofitting of bigger side windows to further reduce the driver blind spots that contribute to so many tragic accidents.”

The FTA believes the cost to implement the plan would hit companies that use HGVs and could in turn affect prices for consumers.

“It is important to remember that any cost added to logistics in London will eventually get passed on to the users – the businesses and residents of London. They are the ones who will ultimately be paying this bill.” Mr Snelling added.

Tfl will hold an online public consultation on the new scheme until the 4th of March.