Impounding: minor changes to hgv scheme proposed

The Department for Transport is consulting on the act under which regulations governing the hgv impounding regime are made.

The change would enable VOSA to release vehicles back to the operator or owner, without the need for an application to the Traffic Commissioner, if it was found that the vehicle had not been operated unlawfully, or where VOSA thought that the vehicle should be returned (perhaps because it was a first offence and should instead be subject to prosecution).

The changes are being brought in alongside proposals for the implementation of impounding of illegally operated psvs (vehicles with over eight passenger seats).

Expansion of Heathrow: decision deferred until early 2009

Following series of consultations on a third runway for Heathrow a decision on the future development of Heathrow was expected before the end of the year. Secretary of State for Transport, Geoff Hoon has announced that an announcement will not now be made until January 2009.