Dear Sir,
I write regarding the letter on van parking. I have vans as I run my own courier service. I employ a number of staff who are on 24hr call out, which means that both myself and my staff keep vans nearby at home.
Under the present economy more and more people are turning to self employment. Also people who work in the service industry i.e. electricity, British Gas, plumbers, water board, etc, all have to park vans at home as they are on call out.
The majority do park their vans sensibly where possible, however, with narrow streets, this may mean a tight squeeze, proving to be a problem which cannot be helped and people have to park awkwardly. Not everyone has the luxury of a driveway.
People get mixed up with the type of operator licences required for different vehicles, for instance you are only required to have an “O” licence if you run HGV over 3500kg.
As most vans parked at drivers’ homes are usually not HGV, they are allowed to park in most places as long as it is safe to do so, and does not block another persons’ driveway.
After all they pay road tax as well as other people. I have had many issues over this with the police and council, even though I always park my vehicles legally. I understand people tend to get a bit tired of vans, but you have to remember these people have a right to make a living, and they may be providing jobs for others. So instead of moaning and complaining and giving van drivers a hard time, get on with your own life and let us do the same.
Mr P Parsley
