We are writing to all local taxi and private hire vehicle operators asking for comments on a new draft policy for licensing conditions, cautions and breaches of conditions.
Since April 2000 when the old Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Licensing Convictions Policy began, there have been changes in offences and sentencing law. The new policy spells out the possible effect of convictions and cautions on new applicants, existing drivers and operators.
The new policy also gives time limits during which a licence would not usually be granted, helping new applicants understand the time they must allow to pass after criminal and motoring offences before the Council will even consider granting a licence.
Cllr Tom Shaw, portfolio holder for Licensing, said: “The new policy should help operators and drivers to better understand the law and help them avoid submitting applications costing £320.50 to £437.50, depending on the type of licence, and then having their application refused.”
Follow this link to see a copy of the new draft policy.
Hard copies of the policy are available from the Licensing Service counter in the Town Hall Extension, Luton Borough Council, Gordon Street, Luton LU1 2BQ from 9am-4.30pm.
The consultation is running until Friday, 21 September.