The Authorised Testing Facility Operators Association (ATFOA), which represents over 400 authorised testing facilities across the UK, is calling for an increase in service fees levied for use of those via what it calls “a statutory pay review.”
Service fees that can be charged by an ATF are currently limited to £70 for a coach or bus. ATFOA has not put a figure on what it would like to see that maximum rise to, but it wants fair treatment of its members against a backdrop of increasing costs and “inadequate profitability.”
The Association was prominent during the pandemic period when heavy vehicle testing was heavily disrupted, and it has repeatedly sought delegation of that task from DVSA staff. ATFOA has now relaunched as a trade body, with the call for a review of ATF service fees a flagship policy.
ATFOA says that the imposition by DVSA of additional costs “without even consulting” forms a central part of why it wants fees to rise.
A meeting has already been secured with Shadow Roads Minister Bill Esterson, while another is being sought with Roads Minister Guy Opperman to make the case for reform of the fees regime.
Also relevant to the ATFOA relaunch is an aim “to reinvigorate the ATF industry by promoting the view of ATF services as essential and safety components of the UK’s transport network, deserving of reasonable profit margins and investment in facility enhancement,” the body says.
Chair of ATFOA is Stephen Smith, who is Chief Executive of Essex-based Boleyn Recovery and Fleet Services. He has invited other ATF operators, industry stakeholders and policymakers to come onboard with the Association’s call for change, which will “promote fairness, efficiency and sustainability within the ATF industry.”
Says Mr Smith: “The relaunch of ATFOA underscores our commitment to championing the interests of ATF operators and promoting fairness within the industry. Through collaborative efforts and advocacy, we aim to address longstanding challenges and ensure a thriving environment for ATF operators across the UK.”
