Retailers and logistics companies are investigating the use of the technology to deliver online orders faster and at a lower cost. But only 23% of the members of the public surveyed by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers are currently in favour of the concept.

The Institution urges the Government to consult on new regulations aimed at addressing concerns about the wider community impact of drone deliveries. These concerns also include job losses for delivery drivers and invasion of privacy.

“Deliveries by drone could potentially reduce traffic congestion and cut emissions from fossil fuelled delivery vans but it’s clear many people are worried about their impact on their neighbourhoods,” said the Institution’s chief executive Dr Colin Brown.

“The Government needs to consult to address these concerns, so people have confidence in the use of drone technology.”

The report adds that companies, the drone using community and the Government should work together on a public awareness campaign to increase understanding of drone regulation and oversight, in order to build trust in the technology.

Despite low support for drone deliveries the survey found that 75% of people back the technology’s use for emergency services response, such as search and rescue operations and the delivery of urgent medical supplies.

Also this week, a survey seeking public views on all lane running smart motorways found that 68% of drivers feel removing hard shoulders compromises safety for those who break down in a live lane.

The survey by road user group the RAC also found that 72% are worried about not being able to reach an emergency refuge area – placed up to 2.5km apart on all lane running stretches of motorway – if they break down.

In addition a quarter said that the majority of drivers do not heed the variable speed limits on smart motorways while nearly two thirds claim to often see speed limits reduced for no apparent reason.

RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: “We are calling on the Government to ensure the latest stopped vehicle detection technology is retrofitted on all sections of smart motorway as a matter of urgency and for more SOS areas to be built so drivers are never more than a mile away from one.

“We would also like to see these measures included in all smart motorway schemes that are currently being built or planned so we have a nationally consistent standard.”

(Photograph: Flystock – Shutterstock)