This week, the Wyre Forest council held one significant meeting that resulted in key decisions affecting local licensing.

Licensing Committee Meeting on 25 June 2024

The Licensing Committee of Wyre Borough Council convened on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to address applications for the renewal of dual driver's licences. These licences permit drivers to operate both Hackney Carriages and private hire vehicles within the borough. During this session, the committee refused two applications based on the applicants not being deemed fit and proper individuals to hold such licences.

Refusal of Applications

The first application was refused due to the applicant recently receiving a police caution for common assault. Wyre Council's policy on convictions stipulates that cautions are treated as convictions. According to the policy:

The starting point is that a licence will not be granted until at least ten years have elapsed since the completion of any sentence.

Given that only eight weeks had passed since the caution, the committee upheld the policy and refused the application.

The second application was denied on medical grounds. The council's Occupational Health Advisor assessed that the applicant did not meet the Group 2 medical standards¹. Despite improvements in the applicant's health, the committee opted to follow the advisor's recommendation and refuse the application.

Postponed Meeting

The Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Economic Prosperity Board meeting scheduled for Thursday, 27 June 2024, was postponed. No further details were provided.

Understanding the Licensing Committee

The Licensing Committee is responsible for ensuring that drivers operating within the borough meet the necessary legal and safety standards. This includes assessing whether applicants are fit and proper to hold licences. The term fit and proper is not explicitly defined in legislation, leaving it to local councils to establish their criteria. Wyre Council’s policy on convictions and medical standards plays a crucial role in these determinations.

Context and Implications

The decisions made by the Licensing Committee reflect the council's commitment to public safety and adherence to established policies. By refusing applications where applicants do not meet the required standards, the council aims to maintain high levels of trust and safety in public transport services.

For more details on the Licensing Committee's decisions, you can view the meeting transcript.

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