London Mayor Boris Johnson confirmed today that bans can now be ordered across the capital for non-compliant vehicles.

Johnson said: “I am pleased to say that after negotiations with London Councils, we can now combine our powers to propose a simple and comprehensive ban.”

The ban is set to come into force as early as September and will focus on construction lorries, tipper trucks and cement mixers.

It will require every vehicle in London over 3.5 tonnes to be fitted with sideguards to protect cyclists from being dragged under the wheels.

It will also require them to be fitted with mirrors giving the driver a better view of cyclists and pedestrians around their vehicles.

The move follows a spate of deaths and serious injuries to cyclists caused by lorries.

The ban will be enforced by CCTV cameras and on-street checks.

London’s Transport Commissioner, Sir Peter Hendy CBE said: “London has long led the way in working with the freight industry to drive up standards, especially in terms of greater road safety, better driver training and reduced vehicle emissions.

“TfL will work with the London boroughs to deliver this proposed Safer Lorry Scheme and further demonstrate our commitment to safer roads for all.”

Under national legislation, many HGVs must already be fitted with this equipment.

But construction lorries, tipper trucks, waste vehicles, cement mixers and certain other forms of HGV are exempt from these and other safety requirements.