Operator Warned for Using Unauthorised Operating Centre at Traffic Commissioner’s Public Inquiry

The Operator in this matter, represented at Public Inquiry by barrister Harry Bowyer, had some building works at his operating centre. As a result he began keeping his trucks at a yard further down the same estate. The operator and his Transport Manager had a few desultory conversations about whether they should report the state of affairs to the OTC and apply for a new Operating Centre. Nothing was done. The DVSA came to visit and discovered the state of affairs and completed an “unsatisfactory” TEOR which led to a call in letter.

The Operator applied for an interim for the new operating centre that was granted.

The Traffic Commissioner warned the Operator as a result of the unauthorised operating centre, pointing out that the OTC in such cases are eager to help operators who find themselves in this position as the rapid granting of the interim in the instant case shows.

Moral: The unauthorised use of an operating centre can creep up on an operator. Keep an eye on where your trucks are parked when not in use!