Hgv annual testing: FTA maintains cautious support for Authorised Testing Facilities

FTA has responded to the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency’s (VOSA) consultation with industry on the development of Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs). Under the plans, 80 per cent of hgv testing will be undertaken by VOSA staff at private premises by 2012.

In a letter to VOSA, FTA gives its broad support to the principle of bringing annual testing to the time and place of routine vehicle maintenance. However, it highlights the sensitivity of the success of the plan to the widespread take-up of ATF status by third party maintenance providers and testing integrating into vehicle servicing schedules. Key concerns raised by members at Regional Freight Council meetings and fed back to VOSA cover the management of the ATF roll-up, AFT equipment and facilities set out in the Conditions of Appointment, testing service levels and the structure and transparency of test fees.

A copy of the letter can be downloaded here