Middlesbrough private hire driver keeps licence after CCTV catches driver urinating and littering in public
A Middlesbrough private hire vehicle (PHV) driver has retained his private hire licence after a licensing review, despite being caught on CCTV urinating in public and littering. The decision, made by the Middlesbrough Council Licensing Committee, followed an incident on Stockton High Street in the early hours of 7 November 2024.
The driver, who has been licensed with the council since 2017, was identified after an investigation prompted by Stockton Council’s Trading Standards Team. CCTV footage showed him urinating at the side of his vehicle before discarding litter. Following the incident, he was issued a £130 Fixed Penalty Notice, reduced to £90 if paid within a week, which he settled on 16 November.
During the licensing review, the driver admitted the offence, explaining that he has a medical condition requiring frequent toilet use. He stated he was “caught short” and had no alternative. A medical report confirmed his condition.
The Licensing Committee considered whether the driver remained a fit and proper person to hold a licence. While acknowledging the medical explanation, the Committee emphasised that professional drivers must uphold high standards.
Ultimately, the Committee decided not to revoke or suspend the driver’s licence but issued a formal warning. The driver was reminded of the Code of Conduct, which explicitly states that public urination is unacceptable. He was warned that any future breaches could result in more serious action.
This decision is final, with no internal appeal process, though the driver retains the right to seek a judicial review if he chooses.
