East Suffolk Council, in Lowestoft, votes to change unfit taxi driver loophole

A new policy targeting a loophole allowing unfit taxi drivers to re-apply for a licence has been approved.

Members of East Suffolk’s licensing committee unanimously agreed last night to approve a policy which changed the council’s hackney carriage and private hire licensing policy.

The change happened after councillors were told of unfit taxi drivers who tried to exploit a loophole and attempted to get a new licence.

They heard, for instance, of a recent taxi driver who, after they had been found unfit to hold a licence, missed their deadline for an appeal and instead contacted the licensing team to apply again.

Cllr Jan Candy, cabinet member for community health, said: “It’s not a good use of time and resources to allow reapplications from applicants who have already been found to be unfit.”

Under the new policy, those who are found unfit will not be able to apply for another licence within 12 months of the decision, unless there are substantial and proven material circumstances to the applicant’s circumstances.

The council report also read: “In setting out its policy, the council seeks to promote the protection and safety of the public, safeguarding children and the vulnerable.”