Council uses CCTV and ANPR to revoke taxi driver licence for using unlicensed and uninsured vehicle
Updated: Dec 10, 2024
Tamworth Borough Council has revoked the licences of a local taxi driver following a licensing committee hearing on 26 November 2024.
The driver was found to have repeatedly operated an unlicensed and uninsured vehicle, prompting swift enforcement action.
The case originated from a complaint lodged in August 2024, which led to a council investigation. Using CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, officials identified the driver and vehicle involved. The findings revealed multiple instances of the driver operating unlawfully.
Councillor David Foster, portfolio holder for environmental sustainability, waste and recycling, emphasised the importance of compliance. He highlighted the risks to passenger safety when vehicles fail to meet licensing standards and stressed that licensed taxis undergo regular checks to ensure they are roadworthy and properly insured.
Councillor Foster stated: “It is vital that licenced taxi drivers comply with the law and work to keep their customers safe.
“Taxi drivers who choose to flout the rules and law, risk losing their licence to operate and risk losing their livelihood. It is rare to see licences revoked; this only happens after proven continued breaches of the rules.
“Licensed taxis not only require a full MoT but are also tested twice a year at the council’s nominated testing station to ensure they are roadworthy. If the driver was involved in an accident the passengers would not have been insured, making the offence even more serious.
"We are determined to protect the public and aim to ensure only fit and appropriate drivers are licensed by the council. Enforcement action will be taken when people break the law.
“This kind of flagrant flouting of licensing rules will not be tolerated. We want to reassure the public and existing taxi and private hire operators that we will enforce against rogue operators when complaints are received."
