Pendle Council reviews key taxi licensing policy amendment which stops applicants reapplying after refusals

The Pendle Council Taxi Licensing Committee are to review an important amendment to the Taxi Licensing Policy. The key amendment looks at whether applicants whose licences have been refused must wait 12 months before reapplying, unless they comply with the council's convictions policy.

The proposal suggests revising the policy to include revocations, thereby preventing reapplications for 12 months after either a refusal or a revocation. This adjustment would aim to ensure that applications are thorough and discourage repeated submissions that lack significant new information.

The current policy ensures applicants take the process seriously and submit complete and accurate applications. It also prevents the local authority from being overwhelmed by repetitive applications from individuals hoping to receive a different decision by persistence.

However, concerns have been raised that the existing policy might lack the flexibility needed for fair decision-making. Sometimes, officers might not have all information during initial evaluations. Allowing for discretion acknowledges these potential oversights and provides a mechanism for reconsideration when justified.

If the amendment is approved, the updated policy will continue to support robust decision-making while incorporating a level of discretion. This is expected to maintain the integrity of the licensing process in Pendle and avoid unnecessary court challenges.

The recommendation, pending feedback from the Executive and final approval by the Full Council, could streamline the licensing process and provide a fairer framework for all stakeholders involved.