Councils urged to help review role of Traffic Commissioner

Local authorities are being encouraged by the Department for Transport to review the role of Traffic Commissioners in an online consultation.

The eight Traffic Commissioners have responsibility in their region or county for the licensing and regulation of those who operate heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches, and the registration of local bus services. They are assisted in this work by 11 deputy Traffic Commissioners, who preside over a number of public inquiries.

The review will consider whether the current role, delivery model, governance and funding arrangements are fit for the future, as well as current issues, such as the impact of the pandemic and increased workload.

The recommendations of the review are expected to be published next spring.

Transport Minister Baroness Vere said: “Traffic Commissioners play a key role in road safety, including helping ensure that people who operate HGVs and coaches are reputable, that there is fair competition between operators and that public inquiry proceedings are fair. I want to ensure that this important function is as effective as possible, which is why I have launched a thorough review and encourage anyone with an interest to have their say.”