In van, cutting load floor out over rear footwell area . Good idea?

[SheepVan]

I'm constructing a two berth camper in a 2013 van. 

An issue identified early on is the loss of what would, in a car, be rear footwell space, due to the loading platform extending over it.  I don't really need the loading platform but I'd like to use it for a leisure battery,  and storage.  

I've been quoted £60-90 to have it cut out and neatened off, which from the perspective of someone without the tools or skill to do it, sounds reasonable. 

I don't think it will affect the integrity of the centre belt attachment, but it's fairly difficult to see down there to be sure.  However, I am intending to remove the middle during seat soon as we only need 2 front seats and would rather have the space and access between front cab and rear living areas than a 3rd seat. 

Is anyone familiar with this issue and think this is a good solution, or have another solution?

[cancunia]

Is the load space a 'false floor' with a void underneath or does it actually form the base of the van? If it's false, maybe you can get some cut outs put into the load space and use them for storage. with hatches over the top?

[SheepVan]

Is the load space a 'false floor' with a void underneath or does it actually form the base of the van? If it's false, maybe you can get some cut outs put into the load space and use them for storage. with hatches over the top?

False floor It's a thought although I think I'd be wanting to cut all of the overhang not just cutouts as there'd be a lot of metal edges left to cover and so little left I might as well have taken it all away.  It's only the front 10 inches or so, begore the actual floor rises up to meet it.  Can't think of a reason not to unless anyone else can?  

Does the quote sound about right to people?

[cancunia]

Does the quote sound about right to people?

If the price is to remove the metal & make good / safe all the edges, then it does not seem unreasonable. If you keep the front edge & sides of the loadspace and cut out the false floor bit, you'll have a level area from the back, right up to behind the seats. It should turn out well either way.

[SheepVan]

Thanks. Good to have some more thoughts on it, including on the quote.