The Licensing Committee of Wyre Borough Council met on 25 June 2024 to discuss two renewal applications for Wyre dual driver's licences. Both applications were refused based on the applicants not meeting the required standards set by the council's policies.

Renewal Application for a Wyre Dual Driver's Licence

The first renewal application was for a Wyre dual driver's licence. The applicant had a recent caution for common assault, which is considered an offence of violence. The committee had to determine if the applicant was a 'fit and proper person' to hold the licence. The council's Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy and the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 were considered in the decision-making process.

The applicant's representative argued that the applicant was of good character and had no previous issues with the police. However, the committee noted that the council's policy treats cautions as convictions and requires a conviction-free period of at least ten years. Given that the caution was only eight weeks old, the committee found no exceptional circumstances to deviate from the policy. The decision was to refuse the renewal of the licence.

Councillor Minto and Councillor Baxter sought clarifications on the treatment of cautions and the applicant's history, respectively. The committee concluded that the applicant was not a fit and proper person to hold the licence.

Second Renewal Application for a Wyre Dual Driver's Licence

The second renewal application also involved determining if the applicant was a 'fit and proper person' to hold a Wyre dual driver's licence. The applicant had been driving for 24 years and had made significant lifestyle changes following health issues. The council's Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy and the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 were again considered.

The applicant's representative highlighted the applicant's long driving history and health improvements. However, the council's Occupational Health Advisor indicated that the applicant did not meet the Group 2 medical standards required for licensed vehicle drivers. Despite commending the applicant's efforts to improve their health, the committee adhered to the policy and refused the renewal application.

Councillor Baxter, Councillor Rushforth, and Councillor Ellison asked questions regarding the applicant's medication, blackouts, and use of glasses for driving, respectively. The committee concluded that the applicant did not meet the stringent medical standards and was not a fit and proper person to hold the licence.

The meeting commenced at 6.05 pm and concluded at 8.35 pm. The detailed minutes of the meeting can be found in the Printed minutes 28052024 1800 Licensing Committee.