Last week the Government published the average times for the OTC processing operator’s licence applications. The data is split into two: one showing the average processing times for goods vehicles and the other for PSVs.
The figures detail the average number of working days it takes from the receipt of an application to a determination. Since January 2021, the measurement includes where interim authority has been granted for applications for, or variations to goods licences, provided a hearing is not held.
Generally, the data shows a large increase in processing times as a result of Covid, with steady improvements over the last couple of years. Figures for processing applications, where no public inquiry is called, have significantly improved on pre-covid processing times. However, in circumstances where a Public Inquiry is called, processing times are significantly worse than levels in 2017.
In the last year, the data is as follows:
- Goods applications (no public inquiry) – 32 working days
- Goods applications (with public inquiry) – 151 working days
- PSV applications (no public inquiry) – 30 working days
- PSV applications (with public inquiry) – 134 working days
What can operators do to improve the time it takes for their application to be processed?
It might sound obvious, but completing the form accurately is the main thing which can be done. Prior to electronic applications, I believe that approximately a third of forms contained errors.
Ensure you read the questions carefully. If for instance, it asks whether you’ve previously held a licence, do not assume they are only interested in the last 5 years, as many operators seem to believe.
At this early stage, it makes sense to seek professional advice. Completing the application is likely to be your first interaction with the OTC and first impressions count. Even then, be careful which professional advice you choose.
I have come across several operators who’ve engaged transport consultants to assist with the application process, only to end up in public inquiry, in part, because that consultant didn’t ask the right questions when completing the form.
Providing wrong answers, in the absence of obvious explanations, will likely lead to the authorities presuming that it was intended to deceive. Initially the OTC will write to you asking for an explanation.
If you are unable to satisfy them, then the matter will end up in a Public Inquiry. This gives you an opportunity to convince the OTC that the error was accidental. However, based on recent figures, this is likely to add a three or four month delay to your application. It is much better and quicker to get it right first time.
Another thing an operator can do to minimise delays is to take steps to try to prevent the matter getting called to a Public Inquiry in the first place. An experienced advisor should be able to anticipate problems which might lead to an Inquiry being called, for example a link to a recently liquidated company or a link to a recently revoked licence.
A detailed submission at this stage, supported with evidence, can make the difference between the application being processed without an inquiry and a public inquiry being called.
Avoid your application going to Public Inquiry by getting our advice early.
Please contact Jared Dunbar at jid@dynesolicitors.co.uk or on 01829 773 105 if you need support with related matters or need Public Inquiry representation.