Issue details

Application considered

The Licensing Sub-Committee heard an application for a new Private Hire Vehicle Driver’s Licence (PHVDL). 

The applicant previously applied for a PHVDL on 11 December 2023, and which was heard by the Licensing Sub-Committee on 8 May 2024. That application was refused due to the existence of a conviction for a relevant offence.

The applicant reapplied for a PHVDL on 27 October 2025.

A criminal record check conducted on the applicant shows no further convictions save for the conviction that led to the 2024 refusal.

The application has been referred to the Licensing Sub-Committee to determine whether the applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a PHVDL issued by Fenland District Council. 

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered the report from the Licensing Officer.

The Licensing Sub-Committee heard from the applicant.

Law and guidance considered

In making its decision, the Licensing Sub-Committee considered all relevant legislation, as well as both the statutory (Department for Transport) and non-statutory (Institute of Licensing) guidance.

Legal advice provided

The Licensing Sub-Committee were reminded that when assessing suitability, the safety of the public is the paramount concern and that the test as to whether an individual should be granted a PHVDL is whether the individual is a fit and proper person. The Licensing Sub-Committee were reminded of Fenland District Council’s Hackney Carriage and Private Vehicle Hire Licensing Policy 2021-2026 as well as the statutory (Department of Transport) and non-statutory (Institute of Licensing) guidance.

The Licensing Sub-Committee were reminded that their decision should be evidence-based.

Matters found to be irrelevant in this case

The applicant’s Peterborough operation.