Workshop delegate base blasts those responsible as it expects to see the sector decimated by upheaval
Community transport organisations (CTOs) in rural areas have reacted with horror to the DfT’s proposed changes to section 19 and section 22 permit regulation.
The first in a chain of workshops to explain those developments and the associated consultation took place in Exeter last Thursday (5 April). The message was grim for community transport.
The DfT says that while it regrets the upheaval, its hands are tied by the legal threat from the Bus and Coach Association. Simply put, it has no choice than to enforce EU Regulation 1071/2009. All that remains is to settle on the exemptions to it.
The small print
The DfT proposes three exemptions to O-Licencing to allow permit use. It suggests that they will be enforced by DVSA where necessary. That concerning organisations whose primary function is not that of a road transport operator is not relevant to community transport.
The others – where commercial operators have shown no interest in a service or bidding for a contract, or where distances operated are short – do concern CTOs.
In the latter case, the DfT has suggested that 20 miles may be the upper limit, but it is important to note that that will apply only to non-commercial work. Meanwhile, the DfT remains adamant that when money changes hands, operation will be considered commercial.
‘Disgraceful treatment’
CTOs reacted to the 20-mile limit with outrage. The combined effect of the proposed changes was viewed by more than one attendee as likely to cause at least half of those organisations represented to close.
Delegates vehemently disagreed with the DfT’s definition of commercial. But it remains unmoved, and for CTOs that currently generate much income via contract work, that spells grave difficulty.
“Those with a hand in this have to face people who will lose their only transport service,” says one delegate. “Treating them like that is disgraceful.”
Read a full report on the Exeter event at miniplus.co.uk
