Council revokes private hire vehicle driver’s licence over conduct concerns towards lone woman pedestrian in Essex
A private hire driver’s licence has been revoked following a recent Castle Point Council panel decision, citing public safety concerns after an incident involving a lone female pedestrian.
The complaint, raised in August, detailed an encounter in which the driver was alleged to have made the woman feel uncomfortable and fearful. According to the complainant, she had approached the driver for directions, but the ensuing conversation left her feeling increasingly uneasy. The driver reportedly asked for her telephone number, which prompted her to walk away quickly and seek shelter.
During the council hearing, the driver defended their actions, stating they were searching for a fare and did not know the gender of their passenger. However, they acknowledged that, in retrospect, their questions might have been perceived as intimidating. The driver’s explanation did little to reassure the panel, which ultimately prioritised public safety.
The panel applied the “fit and proper person” test, considering whether they would allow a vulnerable person to travel alone with the driver. After reviewing the evidence, the panel concluded that, on the balance of probabilities, the driver’s conduct did not meet the standard required to retain a licence.
The decision to revoke the licence was based on guidelines under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 and local licensing policy. The council stated public safety remains the foremost concern, and this revocation highlights the high standards expected of those operating within the taxi and private hire sectors.
The revocation takes immediate effect.
