Transport for London has announced new regulations aimed at protecting cyclists and pedestrians for HGVs.

From September 1st, all lorries on the capital’s non-motorway roads must be fitted with side guards (to stop cyclists for being dragged under the wheel) and class V and VI mirrors to improve visibility.

The plan was announced at the second London Road Safety Conference on February 5th. In consultations, over 90 per cent of respondents approved of the proposals.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “Improving the safety of London's roads is a top priority. We know that a large number of cyclist deaths and serious injuries involve a relatively small number of trucks and lorries that are not fitted with basic safety equipment. Such vehicles are not welcome in the capital.”

Of the 14 cyclist deaths in London in 2013, nine involved HGVs. TfL aim to reduce road deaths in the capital by 40 per cent before 2020.