Miscellaneous Licensing Committee - 7 November 2025

The Miscellaneous Licensing Committee began the meeting with a report from the Democratic Officer on emergency evacuation and domestic procedures. No members declared any interests, and the minutes of the Committee’s previous meeting on 10 October 2025 were formally approved and signed by the Chairman after a motion moved by Councillor Pascoe and seconded by Councillor Saunby.

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1972, the Committee voted to exclude the press and public from the consideration of certain items that involved the disclosure of exempt personal information. The motion was moved by Councillor Pascoe and seconded by Councillor Emery, and it was passed without opposition.

The Committee then considered an application (E1D216) for a new Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Driver’s Licence. The applicant attended, spoke in support of his case, and answered questions. After reviewing the licensing officer’s report, HR Safeguarding’s recommendation, and the applicant’s two drug‑driving convictions (2022, 2023) together with a 2023 conviction for possession of a controlled drug and an uninsured‑vehicle offence, the Committee resolved—motion moved by Councillor Ball and seconded by Councillor Thomas—to refuse the licence. Members concluded that the applicant was not a “fit and proper” person, citing public‑safety concerns and the statutory standards for taxi and private‑hire drivers.

A second application (E1D217) for the renewal of an existing Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Driver’s Licence was also heard. The applicant attended, admitted fault for failing to notify the Council of nine penalty points accrued for speeding within a single month, and expressed remorse. The Committee noted the pattern of speeding offences, the applicant’s long tenure since 2011, and the breach of the licence condition requiring notification of endorsements. After discussion, the Committee—motion moved by Councillor Hanlon and seconded by the Chairman—resolved to refuse the renewal, determining that the applicant did not meet the “fit and proper” criteria required for public safety.

Both decisions were recorded as urgent items, reflecting the Committee’s duty to protect the public and uphold the statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards. No further business was reported.