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Posted on the 23rd June 2025 in PHTM News
BEDFORD TAXI DRIVER LOSES LICENCE OVER ABH AND COERCION CHARGES
A Bedford taxi driver has had their licence immediately revoked after being charged with "coercive and controlling behaviour and actual bodily harm," Bedford Borough Council announced following a General Licensing Committee meeting on Thursday, June 19.
The disciplinary action is one of several taken against taxi and private hire drivers in the borough between February and May of this year, addressing a range of issues including safety complaints, traffic offences, and failures to meet licensing standards.
In another significant case, a driver's renewal application was refused after it was discovered they had received a police caution for battery following a domestic incident – an offence they had failed to disclose for the second time.
Private hire regulations also led to a licence renewal being denied for a driver who was found to have picked up passengers without a booking. The council noted that the driver's "denial and elaborate attempts to offer alternative explanations" worsened the seriousness of the breach.
Traffic incidents also factored into the council's decisions.
One driver lost their licence after striking a father and child at a junction, with the council citing failures in driving standards and reporting duties.
Additionally, two other drivers were ordered to complete remedial training, including the Blue Lamp Taxi Driver Proficiency test, following complaints of poor driving and collisions involving pedestrians.
Despite these disciplinary actions, the council's report highlighted that the majority of drivers are adhering to regulations.
More than 60 new and renewed licences were granted during the same period, with officers conducting assessments under Bedford’s Taxi and Private Hire Licensing Policy.
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