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Changes to operator licensing will not affect most operators, DfT says
Department for Transport (DfT) officials have indicated that the changes to standard operator licences which come into effect this month (February 2022), are likely to have no impact on a licence holder’s operations or the application and licensing process.
In most cases, they reflect regulatory practices regarding “brass plate” or “letterbox” business entities that Traffic Commissioners have applied to date.
In May, some vans will come into scope of operator licensing, but these will be restricted to vehicles between 2.5 tonnes and 3.5 tonnes which cross international borders on a hire or reward basis. Following concerns raised by Logistics UK, the government has confirmed that legislation will be drafted to make it clear that no other vans – domestic or own account – are brought into scope.
In the summary of its response to the Call for Evidence, DfT has indicated that van operators that do not also operate HGVs will not be required to demonstrate available parking for vehicles brought in scope by these changes to operator licensing. In other words, it will continue to be acceptable for these vans to be parked at a driver’s house.
James Firth, Head of Road Freight Regulation Policy, Logistics UK, said: “We do not anticipate these changes to standard operator licencing will make any appreciable difference to most operators.
“While the changes to standard licences are required to align with standard international licences, DfT has confirmed that UK operators will not need to meet the requirement for vehicles to return to base every eight weeks. We will be asking officials to ensure that EU enforcement agencies are aware of this important distinction.”
*www.logistics.org.uk/road
Published On: 03/02/2022 16:00:03
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