Private hire driver banned over unlicensed operationhttps://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/latest ... operation/A former private hire driver has been banned from driving for operating an unlicensed business.Mark Bowler was disqualified from driving for 30 months following a joint investigation between Cleveland Police and officers from Middlesbrough Council’s Licensing Section
Bowler, of Penyghent Way, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton, appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court on Tuesday (November 10) in connection with numerous offences relating to the operation of an unlicensed private hire business and of using a motor vehicle without insurance.
Bowler - operating as MDB Executive Travel - was previously licensed with Middlesbrough Council as a private hire driver until August, 2024, when his licence was revoked by the Council as a result of concerns in relation to his conduct whilst working as a Private Hire driver.
However, despite the revocation of his licences Bowler continued to operate the business, specialising in frequent airport transfers until his activities were identified by Cleveland Police following an investigation.
The 51-year-old pleaded guilty to all charges, was disqualified from driving for 30 months and was ordered to pay fines and court costs totalling £796.
Judith Hedgley, Middlesbrough Council’s Head of Public Protection, said: “Operating a private hire business without the necessary private hire operator, driver and vehicle licences and motor insurance is a serious risk to public safety.
“Bowler was clearly flouting the law, having previously had his private hire driver licence revoked and this is reflected in the decision by the court to disqualify him from driving for 30 months.
“I cannot emphasise enough to the public the importance of using licensed private hire companies and checking to see whether the vehicle and driver are licensed before they travel in any private hire vehicle.
“Private hire vehicles in Middlesbrough are required to display private hire licence plates and signage and all licensed private hire drivers are required to wear a private hire identification badge whilst carrying out bookings.”
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