Drivers refused licences over sex offences, drug taking by Buckinghamshire Council

In the year leading up to September 30, 2024, Buckinghamshire Council refused 53 taxi driver licence applications, more than doubling the 20 refusals from the previous year.

Buck Free Press reported that Principal Licensing Officer Simon Gallacher highlighted that these refusals accounted for only 4% of total applications. The most common reasons for rejection included motoring offences like driving without insurance and using a mobile phone while driving, as well as dishonesty in applications.

Additional reasons for refusals involved sex offences, possession of drugs, weapons offences, and various criminal convictions including burglary and fraud. During this period, the council also revoked 26 driver licences for similar reasons, including one murder investigation, assaults, and criminal damage. Licensing issues also led to 10 vehicle licences being revoked due to significant damage.

The council defended six out of seven appeals against these decisions, with costs awarded to the council in several cases. Gallacher emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards to ensure public safety and trust.

The licensing service received 310 complaints during the year, slightly fewer than the 335 from the previous year, indicating ongoing scrutiny and regulatory action to uphold the standards of taxi and private hire services in the area.