Budget 2006: good news for plant

The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has welcomed the Chancellor's decision to allow the use of red diesel on the road.

A CPA spokesman said: "Excellent news has just come in from HM Revenue and Customs with regard to the use of red diesel on roads. The government has announced in the Budget changes to the schedule of excepted vehicles entitled to run on red diesel.

"Those vehicles that will be able to continue to use red diesel are: mobile cranes, MEWPs and concrete pumps (3.5t and over), snow clearing vehicles, gritters, digging machines, works trucks, road rollers and mowing machines.

"Vehicles within the old category of "road construction vehicles" will no longer be able to use red diesel. However, a new category of "road surfacing vehicles" has been introduced and purpose-built or permanently adapted vehicles in this category will be permitted to use red diesel."

The International Powered Access Federation also welcomed the news. Managing director Tim Whiteman said: "We are delighted that the Treasury has responded to the high level of concern voiced by our members."