Taxi driver faces severe penalties for operating without proper licence and insurance
The Council is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that all taxi services within Stevenage are fully licensed and insured to protect the safety and welfare of our residents and visitors
The Council’s vigilance in overseeing the daily operations of taxis is not merely an obligation but a commitment to public safety. This involves thorough checks on licensing details, driver backgrounds, and a steadfast insistence that all taxi and private hire services adhere strictly to established statutory rules and regulations.
Operating a taxi without the proper documentation not only contravenes the law but also invalidates any existing insurance, exposing passengers to significant risks. Recently, a case was discovered involving Mr Paul Notley, who was found to be driving without an active licence or adequate insurance.
The Council initiated legal action, resulting in a court hearing in September. Mr Notley, from Stevenage, pleaded guilty to all 12 charges brought against him.
Councillor Claire Parris, Chair of the Licensing Committee, stated: "It’s essential that we lead by example and ensure that any wrongdoing within our taxi services is recognised and reprimanded. All our licensed drivers abide by these rules and Mr Notley was fully aware of the consequences of what he was doing.
“This case only contained a small specimen sample of the number of charges that could have been applied for. It was deeply concerning to learn that someone who had responsibility for vulnerable people, undertaking SEND School transport and hospital trips would allow this to happen."
The Magistrates' Court took into account the protracted nature of the offences and spoke of Mr Notley “Conveying vulnerable passengers over a prolonged period of time”.
As a result, Mr Notley has been automatically disqualified from driving for six months due to accumulating 36 points on his licence. He has also been fined a total of £1,680 and was ordered to pay costs amounting to £2,345.22. This culminates in a grand total of £4,025.22, payable in monthly instalments of £200.
To protect the public interest any violations of licensing and insurance regulations will be dealt with in the appropriate manner.