Derby private hire driver dismissed after fly-tipping footage emerges
- Perry Richardson
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
A private hire driver has been dismissed after being filmed allegedly dumping waste from his taxi in a Derbyshire lay-by.
The footage, shared online, was captured at around 3.40pm on 8 April. It shows the driver being confronted near Willington on Twyford Road by a member of the public. The man filming challenges the driver to put broken paving slabs back into the vehicle. The exchange takes place next to a Western Cars-branded taxi.
The driver denies the fly-tipping, but the video appears to show further slabs in the vehicle’s boot.
Western Cars, the Derby-based operator, confirmed the driver was suspended immediately upon learning of the incident. Following an internal investigation, the company said the driver is no longer affiliated with the brand. The operator stated that all drivers are self-employed contractors and must meet its standards for professional behaviour.
Derby City Council, which licenses the driver, is conducting its own investigation. Western Cars confirmed it notified authorities, inspected the area the following day, and shared footage of the cleared site online.
The company reiterated its stance on responsible conduct, stating it is fully cooperating with ongoing enquiries.
A statement from Western Cars Management said: “Following our internal review process, the driver in question is no longer affiliated with Western Cars. Our drivers operate as self-employed contractors whilst representing our brand, and we uphold clear standards regarding professional conduct across our operation.
“We understand that the relevant local authorities are conducting their own enquiries into the matter. We are cooperating fully with these inquiries and will continue to do so as required.
“Western Cars is committed to operating responsibly within our community. We expect professional conduct from all drivers who represent our brand.
“We would like to thank our customers and the wider public for their patience as we have worked to address this situation promptly and appropriately.”
