The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has welcomed the launch today of a new £1.3m scheme which aims to encourage safer, cleaner and more efficient van driving.
The van industry is a fast growing sector being fuelled by home delivery and the construction boom. 357,000 vans were sold in 2005 compared with only 195,000 a decade ago.
Lawrie Alford, the FTA’s sector head for leasing, automotive and PSV said: “This new scheme will help to overcome the poor image van drivers have traditionally had and promote the very essential work that they do. Indeed, the van is the safest vehicle on the road and their operation is far better than the public’s perception has been.”
He also went on to say that: “Given the huge growth in the number of vans being sold in the UK over the past decade, it makes sense for the Government to give additional support to industry to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
