Hi Brian,

Yes, any commercial vehicle can be taxed for private use. The rate changes from a flat commercial rate to one based on the engine size of the vehicle (yes, even if it is newer than 2008). You just need to contact your local motor tax office to inform them of the change of use and they'll help you through the paperwork. It's not complicated. 

A word of warning though: insurance is trickier to sort, so we'd advise you to look into that before committing to buying the van.