Private Hire driver’s licence revokedA private hire driver in Wealden had his private hire driver’s licence, and his vehicle licence, revoked by Wealden District Council after he admitted to using an un-licensed and un-insured vehicle for private hire.
The driver, who cannot be named, failed to renew his vehicle licence in April 2016. The Licensing Committee heard that during a three week period in August alone he carried out over 200 hirings.
“In this case, the behaviour of the driver fell considerably below the standards expected by Wealden District Council, to the extent that it compromised public safety,” said Councillor Nigel Coltman, chairman of the Wealden Licensing Committee.
“The yellow private hire plates, and drivers identity badge, that he was operating under have been returned to the Council, so the driver will no longer be earning a living through private hire work.”
Four other licensed drivers were required to appear before the licensing committee in October for various misdemeanours. Of these four, one other driver also had his private hire driver’s licence revoked whilst the others received less severe sanctions commensurate with their misconduct.
The District Council’s taxi licensing service ensures that licensed drivers undergo a criminal record check and rigorous medical, whilst their vehicles receive a full mechanical inspection every six months.
Licensed drivers must carry photo identification, so that customers can be sure they are being driven by an individual who has undergone the necessary checks. Licensing also provides a safeguard so that customers are not overcharged.
Members of the public who are unhappy with the service they have received from a licensed driver can complain to the Council who will investigate the matter, and take action if necessary.
Two types of licensed vehicles operate in Wealden: Hackney Carriages which can wait on taxi ranks or be hailed in the street, and Private Hire vehicles which must be booked in advance.
source:
http://www.uckfieldfm.co.uk/2016/local- ... e-revoked/